(Part 3) Best home audio speakers according to redditors

nobody has explained their recommendations.

you don't get good volume on dialog because of crappy channel mixing from your TV.

that's not a dig on your specific TV... all TV's suck at this. in fact, most receivers suck at mixing down from 5.1/7.1 to stereo.

for any content generated in surround, something like 95% of the dialog volume is mixed to the center channel.

if you're listening on a pair of stereo speakers, you get to hear what the TV thinks is best, in terms of balancing the volumes between the channels.

folks here are recommending receivers that would give you 5.1 channel audio, and then also suggesting three speakers.

the three speakers are your Front L+R, and the all important center speaker.

receivers do a moderately good job of mixing all the surround channels to just the Front L+Rs, and if you have the center speaker, it will still get all of that delicious dialog.

your budget is a little tight, but doable.

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamrxv379bl/yamaha-rx-v379-5.1-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html $150

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009IUIV4A/ $60 for your front L+R pair

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HH2GINM/ $50 for your center channel

-

check out your sound settings for anything called "normalization" or "equalization".

this will cap the maximum volume difference between the audio channels. so in effect it will reduce the loud parts, and bring up the volume on the quiet parts. this may be sufficient for you to like what you hear, or be sufficient for you to just get some nicer speakers and be quite satisfied.

if the "equalization" setting fixes the quiet/loud problem, but you just want more oomph, i would recommend

eris 4.5's https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GP56OYA/ $180

or

fluance ai40's https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1/ $200

both are self-powered, and need nothing other than a cable to connect them to your Tv.

i have eris e3.5's and they are simply great.

i have fluance floor speakers, and they're also great, so i would expect good performance on the ai40's.

ai40's come with more features - a bluetooth input option, and a remote to control the volume, source.

https://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY

I don't think those Sony speakers are very well regarded. For a similar amount of money you could get the whole 5.0 set of pioneer Andrew Jones speakers:

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2?th=0

Those are supposed to be very good for the price. You should check out a few other speakers from the buying guide on the side bar before you decide though!

Disclosure: Micca sent these free for me to review. I have too many speakers so that doesn't sway my reviews. Micca has always been helpful before I started reviewing products and I am happy with the products I've purchased from them in the past; that does sway my review. Also, my video has affiliate links in the description that help to fund my channel. If you would like a link to the Micca RB42 that is not an affiliate link, here it is: https://www.amazon.com/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=rb42&qid=1554468373&s=gateway&sr=8-1

No.

You are going from one home theater in a box system to another. Generally, stay away from anything in a 5.1 package for under $500. Go with separates instead starting at $50 to $150 and build as you go. Only the front 3 speakers need to match.

If you want better sound then start with a pair of 5.25" or 6.5" bookshelf speakers and the matching center. Then add a better subwoofer. Then add surrounds.

Optional Receiver Upgrade:

• Denon AVR-S540BT $150 refurbished 5.2 with HDCP 2.2 and HDMI 2.0B for 4K video switching.
  
• Denon AVRX1400 $250 refurbished 7.2/5.2.2 with Audyssey MultEQ XT.
  
  Low Budget 5.1 under $300.
  
  
• Polk T15 $50 with Polk T30 $65.
  
• Surrounds: Another pair of Polk T15 or Dayton Audio B452 4-1/2" 2-Way Bookshelf Speaker Pair $27.
  
• Subwoofer bare minimum Dayton Sub1200 $128 with $10 off coupon.
  
  Better 3 front speakers:
  
  
• $240 - ELAC half price sale ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 $150 pair with the center ELAC Debut 2.0 C6.2 $140.
  
• $180 - Dual 5.25" mid bass driver Polk Audio Monitor 40 Series $100 with the dual 5.25" Polk Audio Monitor CS1 center $80.
  
  Better subwoofers:
  
  
• Dayton Audio SUB-1500 $178 with $10 off coupon.
  
• Bic-Acoustech-PL-200 $250.
  
• SVS Sale: $500 https://www.svsound.com/pages/subwoofers
  
  HT Guides: r/HTBuyingGuides FAQ, How to Set Up a Basic Home Theater System - Lifewire, How to Set Up Your Home Theater Receiver, Speaker Placement for Home Theater
  
  Also see r/hometheater.

Here is how I got started:

Micca MB42 Bookshelf Speakers $40 refurbished
Micca MB42-C Center Channel Speaker $27 new
Denon AVR-1912 7.1 Receiver $75 used on Craigslist

The great thing about these speakers is you can order a $30 crossover upgrade from Micca and feel like you got brand new speakers.

You could also skip the center channel and get a subwoofer on Craigslist, instead.

I'm a fan of a Yamaha with Pioneer Andrew Jones speakers, great value all around, this is what I recommend to people who are starting out:

• https://smile.amazon.com/Yamaha-RX-V379BL-5-1-Channel-Receiver-Bluetooth/dp/B00V5VJ3TM
  
• https://smile.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2
  
  Depending on other recommendations you might want to get a 5.0 set and go with another sub. Stay safe out there!
  
  EDIT: For the DJ bits you could go with a 1/4" to RCA so people could just plug their phones in, using bluetooth for that would probably suck. Maybe a chromecast audio if you want people to just be able to cast to it to have a jukebox like effect.
  
  EDIT 2: The Pioneers also come in all bookshelf too, which might make more sense to save space: https://smile.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00LBI88IQ?th=1

Recommended by wirecutter in that price range, I bought it and love it. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SMBG8QY/

The Polk system would be the best IMO, as it uses a standard receiver. That being said, the speakers and sub are junk.

$500 is a decent budget, you can do an entry level 2.1 for that money and it will blow all 3 of those kits out of the water.

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs540bt/denon-avr-s540bt-5.2-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/bic-america-formula-12-475w-powered-subwoofer-black/4235056.p?skuId=4235056&intl=nosplash

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/

That puts you at $530. In the future you can move the RB42's to surrounds and get a better L/C/R setup.

Barring significant discounts, the following list tends to be the best bang-for-buck value subs, in order of increasing price:

$110 Dayton Audio SUB-1000

$140 Dayton Audio SUB-1200

$200 BIC F12. ^(Edit: not sure if designed by Dr. Hsu.)

$290 BIC PL-200 II (now $250). ^(Edit: Designed by Dr. Hsu.)

They are all great at their price points. But if you can swing the pricier BIC, you should be VERY happy.

I'm going to give you answers that you didn't come here for. Get ready.

So your apartment says no subwoofer? Get a pair of tower speakers if you can. They'll have plenty of bass. I have a couple pairs that I use without subwoofers anyways. I'm going to take you slightly over budget, but bear with me. These guys here have those three woofers on the front, but take a peek at the bottom. They have an 8" woofer pointing down, to act as a sub but without being a sub.

Get an SMSL amp (the sa36a will probably work, but I'd go for the sa50 just to be safe) and you're at like $560.

---------------------------

But poly I want bookshelves, not towers. I can't fit towers in my room/apartment/life.

Alright bookshelves it is. Here's another answer that you don't want to hear. None in that price range are going to have a resounding amount of bass. Yeah, they'll have enough, but they won't reach way down. There is, however, a way around that, and it comes in thr form of building your own. Those ones will have bass, be bookshelf sized, and make you happy. If you decide to go DIY, head over to r/diyaudio and ask around a bit more for some advice and get some more specifics. DIY can save tons of money for you.

-----------------------------

But poly I can't build anything!

Fair enough. That is pretty common. I'd take a look around at the sales going on currently. Klipsch and Elac have great sales, and you'll be able to pick something amazing up for an amazing price. And if you want something super classy and cool, these fancy guys should do the trick.

Oh, and for a 2.0 system, whichever one you get, an smsl sa50 would work. Plenty of power and it has RCA inputs, so you can plug it in to something else. I've got one with a RCA to 3.5mm connected to an echo dot, and it's great.

I hope some of this helps! Let me know if you have any questions.

Edit: fixed tower speakers link

With a $600 budget you should start with a 2.0 system then, if you want, add to it as the budget replenishes to flesh it out to a full 5.1 system. With that budget I'd start with this:

Receiver $240: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/marnr1403/marantz-nr1403-slimline-5.1-av-receiver/1.html

L/R speakers $172: http://smile.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1425873281&sr=8-3&keywords=infinity+primus

This will immediately be better than any soundbar (well, other than a $1500 Martin Logan soundbar) and is high quality and flexible. When possible get this subwoofer $270: http://smile.amazon.com/NXG-Technology-NX-BAS-500-500-watt-Subwoofer/dp/B008FSTU4G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425873379&sr=8-1&keywords=nxg+bas500

Center channel $145: http://smile.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Speaker-Center-Channel/dp/B0046A8R5A/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1425873281&sr=8-10&keywords=infinity+primus

And finally surrounds $120: http://smile.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0044D3R7M/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1425873281&sr=8-5&keywords=infinity+primus

There is a lot of contention in the audiophile community about whether any quality amplifier sounds different from another. I've done much research and I've found that there are only accurate and innacurate amplifiers as well as weak vs powerful(able to handle strong electrical loads). In fact any receiver company worth its salt, Onkyo, Sony, Panasonic, Marantz will produce audibly similar amps. People recommend vintage products purport that for some reason new designs for amps are worse, bad sounding, or inaccurate. I've owned vintage amps; they are easier to repair and will last along time. They sound good but they also sound 'different' and to me that most likely means inaccurate. With every improvement in science and computing over the last 20 years, I don't believe we have produced worse or less accurate sounding electronics. Maybe accuracy is not what everyone desires.



For a general consumer I would recommend a digital receiver from a reputable company
Now this is BIFL. So I will give that recommendation:



Surround Sound:
http://bryston.com/9bsst_m.html
20 year warranty. Costs arm and leg.

http://us.marantz.com/us/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?CatId=AVSeparates&SubCatId=0&ProductId=AV7005
3 year warranty. Home theater moves fast so youll probably end up replacing it anyways.

Just stereo:
http://bryston.com/b60_m.html

---------------


My recommendation for a setup that would last you a long time would be:

The cheapest receiver you can find with Audyssey MultiEq(the best sound correction technology on the market):
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-1612-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B004U403WM

It is important to follow this guide when setting up MultiEq:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14456895

FYI: The maker of Infinity speakers, Harman International, is an incredibly well respected professional audio company. They know what they are doing.

For Front LR
2x
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Floorstanding-Speaker/dp/B0044D178S

Center(turn it on its side and angle it to you):
1x http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1318744500&sr=1-1


Surrounds:
http://emotiva.com/erd1.shtm


Subwoofer(I would get two and put one in the back center of the room and one in the center front):
http://www.overstock.com/Electronics/Bic-Acoustech-Platinum-Series-PL-200-Subwoofer/5070689/product.html

I have research if you doubt me or have questions. If you need something more in budget I can tailor the recommendation.

All in the sidebar.....

https://www.chanemusiccinema.com/d1010iv

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NXAEPDC

https://www.chanemusiccinema.com/multimedia-desktop/hivi-acoustics/d1080iv

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0

SVS PB2000 sub -$800

Marantz SR5009 $420

Infinity primus center $200

Infinity primus towers $300 for the pair

Infinity primus bookshelfs $190 for a pair add another pair for 7.1

add another big subwoofer later for more oompf. the primus series represents pretty good value and they will play quite impactfully

then figure in another grand for a projector and screen

You need a receiver to easily switch. $170 will get you a basic receiver. That leaves $330, let's call it $300 so you have room for speaker wire, subwoofer cables, etc. I assume you want a 5.1? Or do you want a better 2.1 where you can upgrade in the future?

If a 5.1:

$130 12" subwoofer (if that's too large for your space, let me know)
2x$60 Dayton B652-Airs for front/back
$30 matching center

If a 3.1:

Same subwoofer
$90 Micca MB42X
$80 matching center

If a 2.1:

Same subwoofer
$150 Klipch R-14's (could also get the $200 RB-51 II's or the BIC 350's if you don't allocate a budget for wires and cables)

Here are some thoughts on this.

1. Using two Bose speakers isn't going to work well and will be expensive.
   
   
2. You'll be better off with a soundbar...yep I know bring the hate but of the two it's the better option.
   
   
3. $200 is going to be hard but if you have variable RCA audio outputs then you can put together a budget 2.0 setup. You'll want to check your TV.
   
   Here are a few options to consider.
   
   

• Soundbar - Yamaha YAS-107 $200, Yamaha ATS-1060 refurb $130 - These Yamaha's sound good on their own except for the extreme low end. However, they have the ability to add in a power subwoofer to them. I like this because the sub is not proprietary and can be used with future systems. If you're in a smaller space these will actually do alright on their own.
  
  
• Soundbar - Sony HTCT80 $100 - Basic soundbar with a wired sub (my preference for simplicity) that will sound much better than the TV. Is this a great solution no but it will work and is very cost effective. For music it's going to be muh but for HT use in a small room it will do fine.
  
  
• 2.0 - SMSL Q5 Pro amp $130, Micca MB42x speakers $90 and speaker wire- Slightly over budget but this will get you on the path to a much better system. This amp has an optical input so you can use it with any TV. The bookshelf speakers can be spread out to get you a better soundstage. The low end will lack but you can fix that later with a sub. You'll also need either an RCA cable to 3.5mm or an optical cable to get the signal into the amp.
  
  
• 2.0 - SMSL SA-50, speaker wire (above) $10 and a set of BIC DV62 $120 - Larger speakers will get you better bass but you'll have to see if you have space for them. You'll also need to have those variable analog audio outputs and an RCA cable to feed the amp.
  
  
• 2.1 - This is going to be tight and you'll need the analog outputs from the TV but this will get you good results. Lepai 168HA $30, BIC DV32 $60, Dayton Sub800 $100, and some speaker wire $10. You'll also need an RCA cable (those are cheap).

Dayton MK442T bundle with 15 inch sub-woofer

Dayton T-652 Bundle

Fluance Elite 5.1 package

Pioneer Andrew Jones 5.0 pack

Polk TSI300 package

Fluance SXHTB elite series floorstanding system

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer $249 on Amazon with Prime shipping.

Onkyo TX-NR676 - $339.00.

Polk T30 center channel - $89.99

Polk PSW10 10" subwoofer - $99.99

Polk T50 towers for the front speakers - $89.99 x2 = $179.98

Polk T15 Bookshelf speakers for the rear surrounds - $59.00 x2 = $118.00

Total: $824.98. Throw in ~$70 for sales tax and another $30-40 for audio cable and $5 for an HDMI cord. You can save $60 by switching the front towers for T15s.

The Onkyo can be expanded to 5.1.2 for Atmos, and supports DTS:X as well. 4K passthrough and it supports every audio format up through Atmos. It's a fantastic AVR, especially at that price.

EDIT: fixed link for T50 towers.

http://www.amazon.com/Tripath-TPA3123-Stereo-Amplifier-Supply/dp/B008YBC172/

http://www.amazon.com/SMSL-TDA7492-Integrated-Tripath-Amplifier/dp/B00F0H8TOC/

http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2

http://www.amazon.com/Mordaunt-Short-Alumni-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B0049APO8U

http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12

http://www.fluance.com/product/SX6_High_Definition_Two_way_Bookshelf_Loudspeakers.eng-12.html

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG

http://www.amazon.com/Fostex-PMO-4-W-4-Inch-Personal-Speaker/dp/B00CYNT8XG

http://www.amazon.com/Alesis-Elevate-Speakers-Elliptical-Waveguide/dp/B00F3F7OIS

> I am looking into the Z625 right now.

Nope, no... no.

Don't buy Logitech, seriously.

Here's an alternative suggestion:
SMSL-50

Micca RB42's!

u/Polypeptide147 will be able to sing the praises of these speakers... the system I described will perform much better than those crap Logitech 2.1 systems.

Okay, fine, I went over your budget by $10... but I promise you, it's worth it! Friends don't let friends buy Logitech.

New, you could consider the Monitor Audio Bronze speakers, or the Zensor 3's. There are also a pair of Monitor Silvers, which look to be in excellent nick, should you decide to reconsider your stand on used. You could pair it with the Yamaha A-S301 amp, or consider this Teac or indeed this NAD depending on the features you're looking for in an integrated amplifier.

The Polk PSW10 is trash. If you're keeping near the same price for a sub, the Dayton SUB-1000 should be $120 and is much better.

For $300 all that stuff is a good deal, but they aren't particularly great speakers at all. When you're able to spend $600, I would go for the Andrew Jones Pioneer line of speakers. Paired with the Dayton sub mentioned before you're at $620. Paired with a Dayton SUB-1500 or a BIC F12 you're at $700.

An alternative if you are able to place three vertical bookshelf speakers as your left, right, and center is the RBH R5Bi. They are $112.50 each so $338 for your front speakers and throw in a $200 sub like the BIC F12 or SUB1500 and you're at $540. For your rears you can throw in a $60-70 pair of speakers like the polks you mentioned or sound appeal 6.5". This will be by far the best sounding setup but will look a bit more unconventional. The R5Bi are beautiful and fantastic-sounding speakers when reinforced with a sub.

Not sure what your sub budget is but you can do way better than that Onkyo sub if you increase your budget.
for $200: https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1500-15-150-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-634.
for $250: https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-II-Subwoofer/dp/B074131NKS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1521495264&sr=8-2&keywords=bic+subwoofer.
EDIT: the Bic apparently increased in price. I remember it being $250 at some point .

I recently purchased a town house, after renting a room for several years. Didn't have any furniture other than the bedroom essentials, so I had a pretty blank slate to work with.

I realize the layout isn't ideal, given the lighting and open floor layout (opens up to the dining room and kitchen), but I was more concerned with having a good hangout environment than having the prefect viewing experience. The only other option was an above ground basement, which would have had the same lighting issue, though better acoustics.

The lighting isn't as bad as it appears in the picture, imo. I've never really had a problem with it, though I do spend most of my time relaxing in the evenings when there is no direct sunlight coming from those windows. Even then, the Samsung seems to handle it well.


EDIT:
Additional pictures of the cable management.

https://i.imgur.com/iPxbpNz.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/6pkdjpH.jpg

For the wall I used some 1/4" shaped wiremold from Home Depot. Sanded and spray painted it to match the existing 1/4" Round. For the rest of the power cables and such, I modified the middle drawer of an Ikea cabinet to hide them away and give me easy access. I'm still not quite sure what to do about the remaining outlet wires, but other than that there aren't any other visible cables.


EDIT 2:
Since I've been asked about pretty much every piece short of the coffee table, I figured I would update this post to consolidate that info. Most of these items I bought used or on sale.

TV - Samsung KS8500 65"

Reciever - Denon AVR-S720W

Speakers - ELAC UB5/UC5/UB5, Surrounds - B4

Subwoofer - Bic Acoustech PL-200 12"

Entertainment Center - Modified BESTÅ from Ikea

Speaker Stands - Sanus SF30 Steel Series

Couch - Corey Sectional from Havertys

Art - Patent Collections from Displate

Rug - [Safavieh Glacier from Overstock](https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Safavieh-Glacier-Contemporary-Abstract-Blue-Multi-
Area-Rug-6-7-x-9-67-x-9/14248766/product.html)

Bookshelves - Parthenia Etagere Bookcase from Wayfair

Coffee Table - Baxton Studio Wood/Metal End Table

Just some general advice here -- get yourself a sound bar that does volume leveling. I got this one and it practically changed my life.

> Better than built-in TV speakers, cheaper than a 2.1 setup

That's not setting a high standard. If you have analog output from your TV, get a small amp for $70, and a pair of bookshelf speakers for $130, and you'll get far better sound quality than this soundbar.

So looking at this I assume your total Budget is about £300. If I were you, I'd recommend trying to up that budget just a little bit, to maybe £350. It'll open up another realm of possibilities. In the £350 budget, I'll always recommend a Yamaha A-S301, as it is arguably one of the best amps in the price range. If you're really settled on either the Onkyo or the Marantz, I would easily recommend the Marantz. In my experience with those two amps, the Marantz has a slightly richer sound. I'll admit I listened to the Marantz PM6005 not the PM5005, however tonally there is no difference between the two, just a difference in power supply.

There is always however the choice of buying second hand. This is an excellent way to get higher quality equipment at a lower price. This takes me nicely to my recommendation for speakers. Really, with very little contest in the price range, the Cambridge Audio S-30's reign supreme, at least in my opinion and many others. The problem is they're discontinued, so you'll have to find them on eBay. If you really want to settle for brand new speakers though, those Polk speakers look alright. I've never heard them myself, but the reviews look good, and the massive sale right now would suggest they'd be a good grab. Other possibilities you might not have considered are the Wharfedale Diamond 220's in Black or in Rosewood. These are excellent for the price, and they look really nice too! The Dali Zensor 1's are often recommended, though I've never listened to them myself, I've heard some excellent things. My final recommendation for speakers are of course the Q Acoustics 2020i. They are remarkably good for the price, and aren't too fussy about power supplying. All of the speakers I've mentioned thus far however will be able to be powered by the Yamaha A-S301.

Those are about all the recommendations I can think of, but if you're really settled on your current speakers and between those two amps, I'd say get the Marantz.

If you have any questions just send me a reply :-)

Amp

NAD 3020 V2 ($399) has:

• Phono pre-amp
  
• Optical-in for your movies
  
• Subwoofer out
  
  Turntable
  
  U-Turn Audio ($309) have gotten good reviews from the few people I know that have picked one up. They look nice and do their job.
  
  Speakers
  
  This is way trickier and way more personal, I personally have had very good luck with used gear from Swans, Canton, Mirage, Chario and JBL that I would have never been able to afford new and have been very happy with. The only speakers I've gotten brand new recently were the Elac B6 and I enjoyed them too.
  
  Some options with the rest of your budget ~$500
  
  Wharfedale Denton 80th (~$500) Absolutely beautiful, review well, I only had a brief listen in person so can't entirely vouch but I liked what I heard
  
  Elac UB5 (~$400) Very nice bookshelf, the concentric set up for the mid range and tweeter is nice and slick and fits a 3 way design into a bookshelf footprint nicely.
  
  Monitor Audio Bronze 2 (~$500) Again, lovely design, enjoyed them when I auditioned them but ended up going with some used Cantons that time.

So $600 for the receiver and speakers and sub. You can have a sub and not turn it all the way up. Just high enough to fill in the lows.

So $400-500 on speakers and sub. If you got a Bic America F12 sub that $200 and half your budget so I would say a Dayton 10" sub-1000 for $100 is a better choice leaving $400 for speakers. So you can get some speaker stands and a pair of HTD level 3's or some Klipsch or the Big Bic-Bookshelves(Sold each).

For a credible 2.1 system without making 'too' many compromises, the lowest I can get you is about $375:

• $130 Denon AVR: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavre200/denon-avr-e200-5.1-channel-3d-home-theater-receiver/1.html
  
  
• $120, pair of Infinity P163: http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32
  
  
• $125, Dayton Sub 1200: http://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-SUB-1200-12-Inch-Subwoofer/dp/B00669L3HS
  
  This will get you some darn good sound for the price and will give credibility to both music and movies.
  
  

We're gonna need your budget in order to help. But A 2.1 setup is definitley the way to go to upgrade ehar you have. Sell those. They are very popular. If you want strictly a computer speaker setup, a 2 channel amp is probably fine. My bestbuy has a really weak bookshelf speaker selection, but you probably at least have the pioneer andrew jones speakers. They are well reviewed. If you have a nice discount they might be a good idea. Also a simple rule is the bigger they are, the louder and lower they get.

/r/zeos has a good 2.1 guide and /r/budgetaudiophile has great extensive speaker recommendation list. If you want to really rock, the pioneers may not be ideal.


These yamaha are massive bangers to blow your face off.

http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1421977443&sr=8-3&keywords=yamaha+speakers

2 of these would be good too. Smaller.

http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1421977463&sr=8-2&keywords=infinity+primus



Smsl amp http://www.amazon.com/SMSL-TDA7492-Integrated-Tripath-Amplifier/dp/B00F0H8TOC

Sub http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015A8Y5M/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1421962220&sr=8-1


But read through the the zeos guide and the sidebars.

If you act soon, there is nothing @$200 that will beat these Infinity Primus p323's

Add this $130 Dayton Sub-1200

I would then look for a used receiver locally ~$50-$100

Then you'll be set up with a killer budget 2.1 system.

If you just want a basic amp (which is all you really need for a pair of $30 Dayton bookshelfs) then consider this Lepai TA2020 for $25.

Honestly you'd be just as happy with this as you would that $220 stereo only Emotiva amp. Sure the Emotiva is a great amp for what it does, but if you just want something to power your speakers, just match starting speakers with a starter amp. As long as your TV has a variable stereo output then you'll still be able to control the volume with your remote. If you read the reviews a LOT of buyers of the Lepai amp get it specifically for use with those B652's and it's more than capable of driving them.

If you want something more complex and plan on potentially running surround sound, then look into a Budget Home Theater receiver. Your use of the word "current" when describing your living situation implies that it may at some point change, which means your needs may likely change. So if you want at least a little bit of future proofing then a HT Receiver is a good way to go if you're willing to spend $200.

The advantage of the HT Receiver approach is you can expand it later by getting two larger front speakers, a center channel speaker and a subwoofer and use the B652's as your surround speakers. Nothing goes to waste.

Now unfortunately if you plan on using the 3D features of that TV and want to run your sources through the receiver then you'll need a 3d capable receiver. I mean you could run all your sources through the TV and then run S/PDIF from the TV to the receiver, but that's somewhat pointless, you might as well stick with a stereo amp.

That said here's a couple 3D receivers to consider:

• Pioneer VSX-921K 7.1 3D receiver - I have the 1121k model and love mine. This one is two steps down and is last year's model (but strangely equivalent to the current 1122k) so it doesn't have airplay and is slightly lower wattage (110W), but that's fine. It's a good value right now. Comes with a iPhone/iPod dock cable connection and has a few other really nice features. This gets you a lot of bang for your buck because you're getting last year's receiver (and the new ones are barely an upgrade). You should be able to find it for around $200-220 shipped.
  
  
• Denon 1513 - this is the new model year Denon, their entry level 3D ready 5.1 receiver. There's a lot of Denon fans, they make some good receivers and their sound is supposedly nearly as good as Harman Kardon. It's MSRP is $250 but if you keep your eye out you can probably pick it up for less on a sale. Full discrete 110W power output. There is also this Denon 1312 for $188 (with $30 shipping though), but it's 3d capable, though it's last year's product line. I imagine this is essentially last year's 1513.
  
  
• Onkyo TX-SR313 - Entry level 5.1 3D ready receiver. This is the current product line, a good basic 65W receiver. Lowest price of the three, as you can see you can get it for under $200 now. Should be a fine receiver that you'll use for a good long while.
  
  As I've found, each receiver brand has their fans. Denon, Pioneer, Harman Kardon, Marantz, Onkyo. Each has it's advantages and disadvantages and cater to different market segments. The only one I'd say there is universally little love for is Sony, at least there's not many rabid Sony fans anymore. It's not that their products are truly awful, it's just they are not exceptional. My first receiver was a Sony DG720. It was cheap ($250 back in 2008) and worked fine, but that's it, it was just fine. My Pioneer is clearly better once properly setup, but the Sony was okay for its time and use.
  
  
  

http://noaudiophile.com/JBL_LSR305/

https://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB-1000-Subwoofer-Black-Ash/dp/B00AF88C0M/

I would get the SVS SB-2000 if you can swing the extra, but these should make you happy within your budget.

Receiver: Denon S540BT = $140

Subwoofer:Dayton Sub 1500 = $188

Speakers: Andrew Jones Pioneer Kit = $375

​

Total: $703

I think you'll do better with some budget Micca speakers and a Denon S540BT. Please DON'T waste your money on that Yamaha sub. Don't get a sub for now and save up for a quality subwoofer that will likely outlive your speakers.

Here's my suggested list:

• Receiver: Denon S540BT (refurbs from Accessories4Less are very well regarded in this subreddit)
  
• Mains: Micca RB42
  
• Center: Micca RB42-C
  
• Surrounds: Micca OoO or COVO-S
  
  If you wanna go super budget, you could even just do 3 Micca OoO's for your front stage and it honestly wouldn't sound terrible.

I would just get a reasonably priced used surround sound receiver from Craigslist and then add a center channel speaker and left and right front speakers. Most of the voices will come from the center channel and you will be able to hear them really well.

The Micca speakers would do quite well and be cheap.

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable/dp/B009IUIV4A/

I would go with this speaker set:

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1414003003&sr=8-4&keywords=pioneer+andrew+jones+speakers

and then add any receiver you want that is under your budget. I like this one:
http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrx2000/denon-avr-x2000-7.1-ch-4k-ultra-hd-networking-receiver-airplay/1.html

Although the monoprice system is highly rated (I love monoprice BTW) I don't think there is any way they can be as good as the pioneers. The pioneer system is one of the most highly rated systems any where near its price point, taking on full size systems that cost much more. Infact, I have a full Klipsch setup that was over $2000 and it sounds just about as good.

Buy this speaker package, and this receiver. Keep the sub, but make sure that's the first thing you replace. I'd try and sell the speakers and center speaker, since you definitely want your center channel to match with your front two speakers. This is slightly over budget ($79), but its probably the cheapest you can get away with without sacrificing major quality.

If you haven't bought the F12 yet, the BIC PL-200 is on sale for $250!

Your need for acoustic panelling will largely depend on the furnishings of the room. If the room is mainly hard surfaces, with no carpet and with solid furniture, you might look into dampening. For your budget, however, you're really only looking at adding a thick rug rather than full-on room treatment options.

Basic advice: to play music from your computer you need a DAC, an amplifier (including a pre-amplifier) and speakers.

Computers have DAC's built in to their headphone outputs, but they tend to be of poor quality resulting in poor sound quality. Integrated amplifiers include a preamplifier built in, and tend to represent the best bang for buck.

For your budget, I recommend spending a decent amount on speakers, and only as much as you have to on the other components. Get a DAC like the HiFimeDIY Sabre USB DAC ($42), the Schiit Modi ($99), or the ODAC ($145). Amplifiers vary quite a lot with price and availability depending on where you are, but you might look out for the Marantz PM6005, the Rotel RA-10, the Onkyo A-9010, the Yamaha A-S300, or the NAD 326BEE or D3020. Note that some of these have built in DACs, so you might like to spend the extra and get a PM6005 (for example) and then you won't have to worry about getting a DAC.

That leaves about $400-700 for speakers, depending on how much you spend on your amp and how much you decide to budget. You can either go floor-standing speakers, or buy stand-mounted (aka "bookshelf") speakers. This is up to your personal preference. At your price point you tend (as a very general rule only) to get better mids and highs from stand-mounters, but better bass from floor-standers. Floor-standers include the KEF Q500 ($550), the Monitor Audio Bronze Series 5 ($314) and 6 ($424), the Wharfedale Diamond 230 ($699), or the Q Acoustics 3050 ($799). Stand-mounters include the KEF Q100 ($424) or Q300 ($649), the Monitor Audio Bronze 2 ($378), the Wharfedale Diamond 10.1 ($249), or the [Q Acoustics Concept 20] (https://www.amazon.com/Acoustics-Concept-Bookshelf-Speakers-Anniversary/dp/B01I46G1VI/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1484025379&sr=1-5&keywords=q+acoustics) ($430). There are many, many more speakers, and they make by far the greatest difference to the sound you will hear, so I strongly recommend you go to a bricks and mortar store and listen for yourself before deciding on a set. Remember that if you buy stand-mounters you will also need to buy stands to put them on.

You will also need cables to connect your computer to your DAC, your DAC to your amp, and your amp to your speakers. MonoPrice cables are good value. Avoid buying overpriced cables from HiFi retailers as these tend to be incredibly high margin items. Getting decent banana plugs on the speaker cables (if you can in your country) will make plugging and unplugging the speakers a whole lot easier.

Good luck and please let me know how you get on!

What the u/astrnght_mike_dexter said is correct.


The recever is decent, good enough for this price range.
A good stereo system will always sound better than a mediocre surround system.


$500 will get you some really nice bookshelf speakers.


https://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-Denton-80th-Red-Mahogany/dp/B00RDMZJ9U
https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Uni-fi-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B01CRYWVG2
https://www.amazon.com/Acoustics-Concept-Bookshelf-Speakers-Gloss/dp/B00D8XYH32/

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Reference-Premiere-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B07G3D2C8S/

https://www.amazon.com/SVS-Prime-Bookshelf-Speaker-Pair/dp/B00PASUMV4/

https://www.amazon.com/Dali-Oberon-Bookshelf-Speakers-Walnut/dp/B07H2N5CNT/

https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92/

https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q150-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B071P6KQZX/

Yamaha R-S300BL Stereo Receiver (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0044779H2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_NbpkxbE8HXM4H

EDIT: Use the HDMI inputs on your TV.

If you must have an HDMI AV receiver, it will be at least 5.1., and you will need an external phono preamp. My recommendation would be Marantz NR1504 Slim Line 5.1 Channel Home Theater Network AV Receiver with AirPlay https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BLZDKX2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_9epkxb1GRQX11

The Yamaha will sound better for vinyl. The Marantz will likely sound better for everything else.

SECOND EDIT: if you need digital inputs then you'll have to up your budget to $550. That will get you 2.1 with digital inputs and a built-in phono stage (will only accept LPCM 2 channel, won't down mix 5.1). This thing would be great. Yamaha A-S501SL Natural Sound Integrated Stereo Amplifier (Silver) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MXUCMWO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_WhpkxbY9HE6YG

If you can stretch to $250 the Yamaha r-s300 is a great amp to start out with. Amazon is also selling used units for $212.


Your speakers would pair well with tube amplification. However,Don't get any of the cheap tube amps off amazon!

Personally I would just watch your local craigslist and try and grab something higher quality. A lot of NAD stuff goes for fairly cheap on eBay as well and would be pretty good.

Anywho, a $200 dollar amp for a $1000 pair of speakers is a bit of an odd pairing.

https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-R-S300BL-Stereo-Receiver-Black/dp/B0044779H2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1475170221&sr=8-1&keywords=r-s300

EDIT: minor text fixes.

EDIT AGAIN:
> what will adequately handle 1-2 of these speakers

OH MY GOD. The horror. Don't even think about using one speaker. Jesus christ.

I'll make it easy for you since you need simplicity.

http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-R-S300BL-Stereo-Receiver-Black/dp/B0044779H2/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1419743537&sr=8-13&keywords=Yamaha.+2+channel

Not even $400 and has a phono stage.

Amazon has Infinity P163s on sale for $59 each right now. You'd need a receiver as well, but I'm using a pair for my rear channels (P363 tower speakers in the front), and it'd be hard to do much better for the money.

If your computer has any sort of built-in sound card, and especially if it has an optical output, your money is much better off spent obtaining better audio equipment first, and computer cards second.

I would start out with an inexpensive multi-channel receiver, like this Denon. Pair that with these Micca or these Infinity speakers for a solid 2 channel start. Add a small subwoofer like the Dayton sub-1000 later on to round out the low end.

If you live in a place where you could mount a screen, or have a room setup with enough space to use a stand, and you truly want to get the theater experience, you can get a solid projector-based setup for $1500.

BenQ W1070 - $700

16:9 100' retractable screen - $80

Assume ~$70 for a blu ray player, if you don't want to just get an HDMI cable and adapter and use your laptop for now, and that leaves $650 for audio, which can certainly get you a very strong two-channel system. Especially if you live in an area with a healthy craigslist trade. Then you can work your way up to 5.1 over time if you feel the need to.

Keep an eye out on craigslist for Infinity Primus P363 tower speakers (and for upgrading to 5.1, other Infinity Primus speakers as well). The Primus line has just gone out of production, but they're great speakers for their price, and the 363 towers could regularly be had for $200 a pair on sale at Amazon or Fry's, so they got around quite a bit and pop up pretty regularly secondhand.

In general soundbars and other home-theater-in-a-box setups are a good thing to avoid if you can afford to step up a notch, and I think you could with your budget, especially your budget + some patience for sales or your budget + craigslist.

I can't say I'm an a/v guru, but this is the core of my setup and I typically get "I would never leave my couch..." reactions when folks come over, haha.

You'll probably find more advice over in /r/hometheater, too.

Well, I did the best I could. I ruled out bookshelves since you said you had the room since bookshelves in this price range don't do so well with "loud" without causing distortion and hearing damage.

So, here are some options. Get one thing out of each section. Try to spend as much as you can on the speakers.


Speakers

BIC America Venturi DV64 x2 (~$250)

Infinity Primus P363 x2 (~$350)

PSB Alpha T1 (~$400)


Integrated Amplifier

SMSL SA50 (~$75)

Emotiva mini-X a-100 (~$190)


The following aren't necessary to get things working but you should add them when you get the cash.

DAC

schiit modi 2 (~$100)

This connects your computer to the amplifier. Without this, you just use a male 3.5mm to rca stereo cable.


Subwoofer

BIC America F12 (~$190)

You connect the amp's outputs to the speaker inputs on the sub and then connect the speakers to the sub's speaker outputs.

If I were you I would start out with the PSB speakers and emotiva amp (if you can afford the ~$600) then add the sub when you get more money. The DAC will sound better than your computer's sound card and reduce static and interference from your computer.

always been a fan of infinity speakers myself, having an old set of studio monitors from the 90's for my stereo setup.

i have a full set of the Primus line, and they're affordable with a good sound (and i think they look better than the pioneer speakers). also, amazon has them on crazy discount right now, though you can usually pick them up for $200/ea.

some people don't like that infinity is now owned by harmon and is a shadow of what it once was, but these speakers have served me well until i have the funds to throw $3000 on a set of something better.

What HiFi really likes the Q Acoustics 2020i, which I see on amazon.co.uk. IThe Dali Zensor 1 also gets very good reviews. A lot of options, really.

As for hooking it up to your computer, it's hard to say without knowing your gear. you can go au naturel with a straight analog hookup from your line out to an RCA input on your amp. You might need be regular RCA jacks or maybe a mini-to-RCA connector. Personally, I'd get a DAC and use a digital output (I prefer optical, but USB is most common) from the computer to the DAC, then RCA jacks from the DAC to the amp. Again, hard to say.

The 685s are B&Ws low end and still overpriced.
>Buy into the legend
Thats all you're doing with B&W, you're paying $650 for a name, not a $650 loudspeaker.


OP, check out these options
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RB-61-Cherry-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B0040LP6JK
http://www.amazon.com/electronics/dp/B0057X5KF0
http://www.musicdirect.com/p-15479-wharfedale-diamond-102-bookshelf-speakers-pr.aspx
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_760IMGB5C/PSB-Image-B5-Dark-Cherry.html

$1000 for Both ?

Rsl Speedwoofer $399

https://rslspeakers.com/speedwoofer10s/

or SVS SB-1000 $499

https://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB-1000-Subwoofer-Black-Ash/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=svs+subwoofer&qid=1563338176&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Denon AVR-X3500H $549

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrx3500h/denon-avr-x3500h-7.2-ch-x-105-watts-a/v-receiver-w/heos/1.html

I really like my Bic PL 200

https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B00OFXV5IO

Laser projector:

DJ Disco Lights Party Lights, U`King LED Projector Stage Light with Music Strobe Light by Remote Control Great for Dancing Club Bar Pub Lighting https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KD4LKWD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_k5XtDbGZ0QTNZ

Led strip:

LED Strip Lights, L8star Color Changing Rope Lights 16.4ft SMD 5050 RGB Light Strips with Bluetooth Controller Sync to Music Apply for TV, Bedroom, Party and Home Decoration (16.4ft) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PLNDJ2N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Y5XtDbJS8A72K

Sound bar:

VIZIO SB3821-C6 38-Inch 2.1 Channel Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SMBG8QY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_i6XtDbZFYC129

Tapestries:

Lucid Eye Studios Trippy Trek... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JN7FCNG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Flower Arabesque Tapestry Retro... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HBT7RDN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Would also recommend a fog machine, lava lamps, backlit/neon artwork. Oh and I did notice even with the laser and led strip on there wasn’t a whole lot of light on the tapestries so I’d say just for a bit more ambient lighting a Phillips hue would be a good investment. I’ve still got some stuff to do to tie it all together but it’s a good start lol

Theres going to be a zillion different options. I personally use M-Audio for my desktop audio solution. They plug in to my motherboard audio out with a single cable and work extremely well. Different brands of monitors will have different sounds. I like to shoot for a relatively "flat" or even sound. M-Audio nails it in the price range. You'll need a bit of space for a larger bookshelf sized speaker though.

M-Audio AV42

I don't think it's worth it to spend any serious amount of money on speakers that size. They just don't have enough mass.

But you could certainly get something better than those multimedia speakers. A pair of these would certainly be a step up. They're not very good and I don't recommend them, but they're certainly much better than what you have. If you can't fit the 4" version, there's a 3" that you should be able to.

Is there room on the sides of the TV for speakers? Ideally they would be a couple feet to either side of the TV.

You probably just want to go with a 3.1 system, because the placement of the surrounds will be so wonky with a corner L-shaped couch and a corner TV that I don't think it would be worth it. You could do in-ceiling speakers, and do a 3.1.2 system though. https://www.dolby.com/us/en/guide/speaker-setup-guides/3.1.2-overhead-speakers-setup-guide.html

For $1,000 3.1.2 system I would get this:
Receiver - $300 (doesn't have eARC, but you probably don't need it)
Front L/R speakers - $200
Front center - $170
in-ceiling speakers - $80
Subwoofer - $250


If cutting holes into your ceiling to install speakers and run wiring is a daunting task, then just do a 3.1 system and you can spend more on the subwoofer. If you can push your budget this very high quality SVS PB-1000 subwoofer goes on sale on the outlet site for $400 several times a year, I imagine it will during labor day subwoofer option 2 - $400. It will be infinitely better than the $250 one linked above.

No worries, this just means a 2.1 or 3.1 is perfect for now, and then you can add on later.

Option 1:

2x RSL CG3 Bookshelf @ $135 = $270

1x RSL Speedwoofer 10s (sold out until Oct) @ $400

1x Denon AVR-X3500H 7.2-Ch x 105 Watts A/V Receiver from Accessories4Less @ $500

Total: $1170

Less of a budget stretcher, giving up a bit of performance. That receiver is realistically future proof (supports 7.2, 4k) and wouldn't need to upgrade for quite some time. More clear upgrade path however. In this scenario, when you want to upgrade, you get 3x RSL CG23s to be your new front speakers and move the CG3 you already own to the sides as your surrounds.

Option 2:

2x ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers @ $300 (comes in a pair)

1x Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer @ $300

1x Denon AVR-X3500H 7.2-Ch x 105 Watts A/V Receiver from Accessories4Less @ $500

Total: $1100

About the same as option 1, and would come down to preference to RSL vs Elac (if you can demo Elac at a store, please do, RSL is internet direct only but does have in home trail). Similarly easy upgrade path, you'd just fill it out with the rest of the Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 lineup (ie center, they even have some on walls for surrounds).

Option 3:

2x RSL CG23 @ $200 = $400

1x RSL Speedwoofer 10s (sold out until Oct) @ $400

1x Denon AVR-X3500H 7.2-Ch x 105 Watts A/V Receiver from Accessories4Less @ $500

Total: $1300

This requires a budget stretch, but gets you great stereo performance with a clear upgrade path. For speaker upgrade, you add the 3rd RSL CG23 for your center (these can be used horizontally or vertically FYI), and then whatever you want for surrounds (either the RSL CG3 or an on wall, ect)

Based on these numbers you can see you have about $300 for the speakers, so any speakers you can get for $150 each would work here. Other options are Fluance Signature Series HiFi ($200 for pair), Jamo S 803 ($160 for pair), or Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf ($300 for pair). I haven't heard any of these, but they get good reviews (particularly the Q Acoustics).

You could always go less on the receiver, but then you might have to buy a new one later. Would be nearly impossible to go lower on the subwoofer, the BIC and the RSL Speedwoofer are about as good as it gets for that price.

Finally, since you are primarily music focused, you could always axe the subwoofer altogether (add it later) and spend ~$600 on 2 kickass (maybe tower) speakers as music doesn't need as much super low bass as movies do. Let me know if you want to see what that looks like.

For that budget here is what I would recommend:
Denon X-1500H - Stepping up to the X series gets you Audyssey XT room correction which is the 2nd best available. IMO this is a big step up.

Klipsch RP-150m - This is where most of the subreddit is divided. I personally think the Klipsch RP are some of the best value home theater speakers available and this particular pair is discounted for being outgoing and a less popular color.

BIC PL-200 II - This is my least favorite of the 3 pieces picked and IMO if you can budget enough to step up to the entry HSU, Rythmik or SVS, I'd rather go down that route. This is not to say that the BIC sub is bad but it would definitely be the first on the list to get upgraded when funds allow.

If you decide to save up or stick to your budget, stepping up to a receiver that can do full atmos or getting better or different sounding speakers are an option but it can get confusing fast. I'll let others come up with their recommendations and you can decide.

$1000 isn't much to work with, but you can still get a decent setup.

Receiver: Denon 530

Towers: Bic PL-89

Matching center

Sub

Total comes to $1069, but I don't think you will have any complaints about this setup.

If you really want to go cheap, get some Polk Monitor 70s which I routinely see on sale for $170-180, a matching center from Crutchfield's scratch and dent for about $70 with the same sub and receiver.

Whatever you do, have some patience and just wait until Black Friday. Last year Best Buy had Polk and Klipsch stuff on sale for 50% off. You might be able to snag some Polk Signature S55s or Klipsch Reference series for cheap.

$170+ refurbished receivers with Chromecast built in + either MB42X ($80) and MB42X-C ($70) or Sony SSCS5 ($150) or Micca RB42 ($130) or Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 or Polk S20 or Q Acoustic 3020 or more but those are just a few stand outs at their price point. Then you'll need speaker cable and assuming your not adventurous enough to strip wire and put banana plugs on yourself you can buy them pre made for pretty reasonable price. And yes this doesn't have Android TV but do you really want to replace your whole sound bar when Google kills Android TV for Google TV in a few years? (Because Google loves killing products people love)

if your wife likes the Q acouctics keep an eye out for the Micca RB42s. they should be coming back in stock mid august.

Link

Have you ever heard a pair of Klipsch speakers? Reason I ask is that they can be fatiguingly bright, especially when not using any room correction that might tame them down a bit. I had a pair of unpowered R-14 that I only listened to for about 15 minutes before returning them to Amazon.

I would recommend considering something like the Micca RB42 which have been highly praised to the point of consistently selling out as soon as they come into stock. Review.

You should keep an eye on this auction for Jamo C103 which are originally $1600/pair and sound incredible down to 45hz. Review If these end up around your price range, try and snag them.

Third option: Jamo C93 on ebay. Same tweeter as above, smaller woofer, will still fill a family room. Review.

You might be wanting to stay away from a home theater receiver which I can understand for space, but going with powered speakers really does limit your options. I would entertain looking at a smaller amp like the AD18 that includes bluetooth connectivity and optical for your TV.

EDIT: Would actually recommend playing your music off your TV => optical instead of bluetooth. Spotify connect/airplay is great and then other people can change the song using the TV remote.

Those cube speakers are ok for surround rear channels, but I would try to invest in a better receiver with hdmi inputs and a decent center channel when you can. I just replaced my left and right channels with these Micca's and it is a tremendous upgrade for the price. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JC416LG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Monitor Audio Bronze 2 Bookshelf Speakers - Walnut https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002LPTH92/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eC2gDbRQMP4Y2

Bronze .2s are definitely the best looking speakers at 500 or less!

Im enjoying my Monitor Audio Bronze 2's immensely. I see they are on Amazon right now for ~$375 new or $299 used.

https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1541175067&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=monitor+audio+bronze+2&dpPl=1&dpID=51vdtRpHeTL&ref=plSrch

They also look fantastic, but thats just my opinion.

Since you are getting a sub, you could crossover the speakers at 80hz. The Monitor Audio Bronze 2 would work quite well: https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92 $372

Bronze Center $224 https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Center-Speaker/dp/B000GJEUP6

Unless you have researched it and are positive you want go with dipole/bipole speakers, I would go with the Monitor Bronze 1 $300 https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00XW02HB0/

You can do much better for the sub. Get the Rythmik LV12F for $600

Total: $1500, and you get a better subwoofer.

Denon X1500H receiver for $300. If you want to jump up, you could look at the Denon 3000 series (not sure what the best deal is there).

If you are interested in bookshelf speakers and can spot the extra $, I'd recommend Klipsch RB-61 II.

Reference series and 95db efficient, so they take very little power to be loud and clear. I own a pair in my secondary setup, and I really like them. They have 6.5 woofers, and for bookshelf speakers, they have really good bass response.

If you can't get much higher than $400, check out the Klipsch RB-51 IIs. Same line but with 5.25" woofers.

I'm sure there are other options, but I'm a big fan of Klipsch. Really nice products.

You'll get a HUGE upgrade in sound quality if you stick with a 2.0 setup and don't need either particularly deep nor prominent bass. Klipsch makes some great speakers for music and home theater applications, and are really sensitive so any good amp can drive them with no problem.

If you don't have a good surface to place them on, you'll also need speaker stands, or you can just avoid that and get floorstanding speakers. Polk Audio and Klipsch are still my first choices in that price range, as they both reach pretty damn low without a sub and are bright and detailed, going well with home theater applications. Either with an amp, however, might be a little above your price range.

Do some research. Poke around and read some reviews. You may not like bright speakers - it also may turn out that you really don't like the kind of fudgey Bose sound, either.

What sounds good to you?

If all you want the amp to do is music, and not have anything to do with switching video sources, a stereo receiver would be fine.

I like this one, but may be over budget: http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-R-S300BL-Stereo-Receiver-Black/dp/B0044779H2?ie=UTF8&keywords=yamaha%20stereo%20receiver&qid=1465321211&ref_=sr_1_4&sr=8-4

Huge array of selections dependent on your price range. All you need is to be sure the receiver has a 'Phono' input on the back. Here are a few examples:

Onkyo A-8020 - 170 USD

Yamaha R-S300BL - 275 USD

Harmon Kardon 3770 - 400 USD

> Ideally much much less.

Wouldn't we all? ;-)

With the Carbon DC and Wharfdale speakers, you will want a decent unit in between. Audiophile oriented reviews on both of these units are good. Both have built in phono preamp. I was looking into receivers a few months back for someone and had a larger list that I can't find now, but these are the two that standout in my head:

*Yamaha S300:
http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-R-S300BL-Stereo-Receiver-Black/dp/B0044779H2/

• Pioneer A-20:
  http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-2-Channel-Integrated-Amplifier-Direct/dp/B00LIQ3NM2/
  
  There's also the Yamaha R-S201, but you will need and external phono preamp with that. Also it's wattage isn't as clean (but still reported to be quite clear) as the wattage of its big sister the S300.

If you truly want to upgrade to decent speakers, youre going to want speakers that are connected via speaker wire, meaning you need a receiver. Since you only want 2.1, I suggest this receiver: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0044779H2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i6wlzbDVMV147

I dont have it myself, but a buddy of mine has it. I may get one too because it has physical tone controls. As for the speakers, you may be better off asking someone else, as I really only listen to music and Im not sure if youd be better off with other speakers for gaming. However if I had to pick, with your budget, Id go with the Andrew Jones Pioneer bookshelf speakers. Those things are AMAZING for what you pay. If you could bump your budget up a little higher, Id recommend getting the Andrew Jones floorstanding speakers, but the bookshelf will do just fine.

I second going used. IMO vintage receivers have a more "musical" sound to them.

The Sony you posted would work, though I would recommend this Yamaha over it. I'm a big supporter of pairing bookshelf speakers with a subwoofer, and it looks like the Sony doesn't have a subwoofer output.

Replace at least the front stage with something bigger. It will change the whole experience. You don't have to spend a lot. Clearly you already spent all your money on the screen.

Three of these will do nicely.

Smsl a2:
http://www.amazon.com/SMSL-A2-Digital-Amplifier-Silver/dp/B014P5I8SG

Dayton subwoofer:
http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pla

Infinity p163 (each):
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32

You'll need cables. rca to 3.5 or rca to rca, an individual rca for subwoofer or extra speaker wire for subwoofer, speaker wire for speakers.

use the daytons for now, but most moderatly priced speakers will have 5 way binding posts.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0045NCB32/

stereophile review:
http://www.stereophile.com/standloudspeakers/1007inf/

You could do 2 pairs of the HTD Level 2 bookshelves and the center for $530. http://www.htd.com/Products/level-two-speakers

Emotiva 2 pairs of XRM 4.1 at $160 per pair, $320 total. The XRC 5.2 center channel for $180. Total is $500 even. http://shop.emotiva.com/collections/speakers?page=1

5 NHT Super Zero speakers at $100 each. Sold out currently. http://www.nhthifi.com/Bookshelf-speaker-SuperZero-2-1?sc=12&category=3774

You could do 5 Infinity Primus bookshelf speakers at $85 each. http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1374608377&sr=8-3&keywords=infinity+speakers

Polk Audio always has stuff you can fit into most budgets. Lots of choices here: http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&Depa=0&Description=ppsspolkmonitorseries&cm_sp=BrandStore_-Polk-Audio-_-polkaudio%2f13-2614-_-http%3a%2f%2fpromotions.newegg.com%2fpolkaudio%2f13-2614%2f400x132.jpg

Affiliate/refer removed:

Link

Making sure I get the parts right:

4x http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Three-way-Floorstanding-Speaker/dp/B0046A8R3M

1x http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-X1000-5-1-Channel-Networking-Receiver/dp/B00CALM2JY

1x http://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-SUB-1200-12-Inch-Subwoofer/dp/B00669L3HS

Any complaints or thoughts about the setup?

Is the receiver easy to use? My wife is a bit tech impaired when it comes to things like receivers.

It says you can "wirelessly stream music from iTunes on your PC or Mac or from your iPod touch, iPhone, or iPad via your home network" but I see no wireless specs. Would I need to run network cable to the router for those features to work?

Sorry for the bombardment of questions, thanks for your help!

I'm assuming you are asking about a set of speakers (most likely 2-hence stereo). If you only want good Bass just get a powered sub! I'm kidding but realize you're questioning the audiophile sub-reddit here.
If you are talking about something like this:http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MHCECL99BT-Wireless-Music-System/dp/B00MO66IJU/ref=sr_1_5?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1426037868&sr=1-5

Then i can tell you your options are pretty limited and I have the previous model of these and although they are good (I paid $130). You can get much better sound out of a Lepai-20XX amp and Overnight Sensations for a bit more money.

You are probably best off getting http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Three-way-Floorstanding-Speaker/dp/B0046A8R3M/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1426038067&sr=1-1&keywords=infinity+primus

and something to drive them

Can you use your vouchers in other Amazon stores?

Turntables in the US seem pricey. I would go for something like this at ~$200 ahead of anything I could find on Amazon USA.

To go with the Project, I think the Dali Zensor is the best small speaker around at the moment. Again, these are ~$200 cheaper in Europe than the US.

To complete my suggested European setup... I would pick this Cambridge Audio amplifier with a built in phono stage. It does slightly burst your budget, but it sounds nearly as good as a much more expensive Arcam amp and the smooth sound will flatter vinyl. Think of it as a designer knock-off.

I'm sure you can get a good DAC for cheap, you just need to look at a different brand. This one is 15 eur and appears to be the same as the Fiio. Google had trouble translating the page, but the reviews seem to be pretty positive.

It works the other way around too, with you getting better prices on stuff made in Europe. For example, the DALI Zensor 1 is 290 eur, and over here it's $390 (353 eur).

Take a look at this: http://www.stereophile.com/content/dali-zensor-1-loudspeaker
And: http://www.whathifi.com/dali/zensor-1/review
And its available on Amazon for $495 here: http://www.amazon.com/DALI-ZENSOR-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0
Let me know what you think.

A receiver is what you are looking for. Here is an example of one but I'd recommend looking over at /r/zeos for an actual product recommendation. Here is a guide for 5.1 systems: http://www.reddit.com/r/Zeos/comments/2alqvp/guide_51_surround_sound_systems/

If you're going to use it primarily for music, why not just go for a stereo system? If you do it right, you'll likely get much better quality for the same price.

Also, what are your requirements for media playback? Do you need to get a BD or DVD player for the room, or do you have a method of media playback?

If you don't need a playback device but still want surround, this with this will put you in roughly the same budget, but will be orders of magnitude better in terms of sound quality, even without a subwoofer. Yes they're large (I'm kinda assuming that you have space for floorstanding speakers), but you need to be able to move a lot of air to be loud, and at this budget you need big speakers to do that.

If you don't have a playback device or don't have much space to work with, tehsalt's suggestion is probably your best bet.

edit: phrasing.

/r/hometheater is more appropriate, but any amp can be hooked up to them, they are just speakers.

if you want to use all the speakers onkyo makes a decent 200dollar 5.1 reciever.


http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX-SR313-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B0077V8930/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421559175&sr=8-1&keywords=5.1+reciever

a stereo receiver worth a damn with a sub out would cost about the same. and even onkyo's low end products are built to last. I have had one of their HTiB recievers since 2006

How big is your place? I have used [this] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0077V8930/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) receiver for the last two years and Bose 5.1 speakers. Depending on your price range, you can mix and match speakers or get any set, IMO if your place is small enough the receiver is the most important part.

Make sure all of your appliances use hdmi for the easiest setup, btw. The PS4 clearly uses hdmi, and most modern cable boxes do as well. Plug everything into the receiver and then the Onkyo into the TV. In my experience, there is almost so lag in play through using this device.

B&W 686, or Monitor Audio silver, or Klipsch RB-something

http://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB1000-12-inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B00AF88C0M

http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-Natural-Stereo-Receiver-R-S201BL/dp/B00F0H88SY/

BIC America DV62si Bookshelf Speakers amazon

If you're set on the receiver, a pair of Bic DV84 for $140 each or a pair of Polk Monitor 60s for $160 each. Bic DV62CLRS center for $100 and DV62si for the rear at $110 for the pair. Bic F12 sub for $185. Maybe a pair of Fluance bookshelves for $180 a pair, and Bipolar for the for $200 for the rear, then find a center, hard to beat the bic for the price as far as a sub though. The Bic 84s, and Monitor 60s stand up pretty well to heavy bass, the F12 will add the necessary kick in the balls.

Not sure why you x-posted this to audiophile, with that budget the only way will get audiophile grade is if you can find the score of the century on craigslist.

Yeah I'd like to keep it under 200; although I'm not opposed to buying used (stereo gear seems to be like 20-30% of the new price). My garage is unfinished so it's only going to be set up on a bench in the back. I just couldn't stand the fuzziness and jazz with the jambox I bought to replace the other system so I figured I'd ask around. someone recommended these

https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-DV62si-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00006JPDI/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1537553961&sr=1-4&keywords=bic+speakers&pldnSite=1

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BQC7GNL/ref=psdc_537344_t1_B076XSBCCL?pldnSite=1

Honestly the Dayton Audio B652's aren't all that great. They're good for the price yes, but still far from accurate. If you have some extra cash I'd get these BIC America bookshelfs. They reproduce sound wonderfully.

A lot of people swear by the Andrew Jones pioneer http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008NCD2LG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1457548297&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=pioneer+andrew+jones&dpPl=1&dpID=31iDtHu2uBL&ref=plSrch. Right now Amazon has them kind of high you can usually get them from $90-$100 and I hear they pair very will with the subwoofer of the same line if you need more bass. I have BIC dv62si http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00006JPDI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1457548450&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=bic+bookshelf+speakers&dpPl=1&dpID=51HPD0S3QBL&ref=plSrch and Polk Audio monitor 40 http://m.newegg.com/Product/index?itemnumber=N82E16882290202&nm_mc=KNC-GoogleAdwords-Mobile&cm_mmc=KNC-GoogleAdwords-Mobile-_-pla-_-Home+Audio+Speakers-_-N82E16882290202&gclid=Cj0KEQiAsP-2BRCFl4Lb2NTJttEBEiQAmj2tbe0e9xxYi_WXGDW2JIHUuKk8HM7aUzrGfLfJGGingMwaArSo8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds

I enjoy both of those for the $125-$150 price range.

The audiophile pages can help with picking out good priced vintage speakers that are probably much better for filling a bigger room and giving better sound.

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Link: http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12

• UK: amazon.co.uk
  
• Spain: amazon.es
  
• France: amazon.fr
  
• Germany: amazon.de
  
• Canada: amazon.ca
  
• Italy: amazon.it
  
  
  This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting).

Here's what I would do to get a great sound system that will work for your ipod. This is much better than any ipod dock, but is not very portable.

1. power amplifier 50W/ch $103
   
   
2. bookshelf speakers $129
   
   
3. subwoofer $107
   
   
4. mini-jack to RCA converter to plug your ipod or any other device to the amp $3
   
   
5. speaker wire
   
   The total is over $300 but will be much better than the bose system. You could find cheaper bookshelf speakers that will work too.
   

All of these are less than the AudioEngine A2+:

JBL LSR305, $240

SMSL SA-50, $68 plus any of the following:

Micca MB42X, $90

Pioneer BS-22-LR, $116

Polk TSi100, $150

For $200 you could go in a couple of different directions. Basically, either a decent entry level AVR with a pair of cheap bookshelf speakers, or a cheap stereo amp with a pair of decent entry level bookshelf speakers. If you could bump your budget up to $300 you could get a decent AVR and a decent pair of speakers. (Decent is relative, but I'm using it to mean a step up above "cheap".)

Examples:

Decent AVR and cheap bookshelf speakers.

• Denon AVR-S540BT - https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs540bt/denon-avr-s540bt-5.2-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html
  
• Polk T-15 speakers - https://smile.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-T15-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002RJLHB8/
  
  Cheap stereo amp and decent bookshelf speakers.
  
  
• Example cheap amp - https://smile.amazon.com/Power-Home-HiFi-Stereo-Amplifier/dp/B0071HZ5LE/
  
• Polk TSi100 speakers - https://smile.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12/
  
  My recommendation would be to see if you can stretch your budget to buy the Denon AVR and the better speakers. That would put you at $280 plus tax. If your budget really is limited then go for the AVR and the T-15. When you're ready to upgrade you will have the option to add a subwoofer, a center channel speaker, surround speakers, or better front speakers and move the T-15 speakers to the surround positions.
  
  
  
  ​

There are a lot of clear upgrades in that price bracket. Check out the following:

• Polk S15 - $159(on sale, down from $229) - https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Signature-S15-Bookshelf/dp/B01LVWWZS0/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1542396989&sr=8-3&keywords=polk+s15
  
• Sony SSCS5 - $73(on sale, down from $148) - https://www.amazon.com/Sony-SSCS5-3-Driver-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00O8YLMVA/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1542397025&sr=1-1&keywords=sony+sscs5
  
• Pioneer SP-BS22-LR - $99(on sale, down from $130) - https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1542397060&sr=1-1&keywords=sp-bs22-lr
  
• Klipsch R-51M - $124(on sale, down from $249) - https://www.klipsch.com/products/r-51m-bookshelf-speaker
  
• Micca MB42X - $80 (regular price - https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1542397169&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=mb42x&psc=1
  
• Fluance SX6 - $129(regular price) - https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-BK-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00IEDL8EM/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1542397213&sr=1-1&keywords=sx6
  
• Polk TSI100 - $130(regular price) - https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1542397239&sr=1-1&keywords=tsi100
  
• JBL Arena 130 - $99(down from $299) - https://www.jbl.com/loudspeakers/ARENA+130.html?dwvar_ARENA%20130_color=White-USA-Current#q=arena+130&start=1
  
• Polk RTIA1 - $194(regular price) - https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B000V2UBS8/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1542397249&sr=1-1&keywords=rtia1
  
  Just to name a few...

I have a couple of Onkyo receivers from that era. One was my grandparents' and one was a Goodwill find for $10. They're not legendary gear by any means, but they're still better than a lot of what you'll find manufactured today.

I'll take my '80s Onkyo and a pair of decent bookshelf speakers over Beetz or Bose any day.

Speaking of bookshelf speakers, if you want a decent pair on the cheap, grab these guys. Even if you upgrade later, your setup will still work great in the garage or office.

http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1417692840&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=polk+bookshelf

After several months and hundreds of dollars I think I'm complete!

Turntable:
Kenwood KD-40R. One day I asked my dad if he had a turntable and this is what started it all. We found it in the attic, original box and in great shape. Replaced the needle and I was good to go. (Minus not having anything else, of course)

Speakers:

• Polk TSi 100 Bookshelf Speakers (Ebay, $100)
  
  Sub:
  
  
• Polk PSW10 (Newegg shell shocker, $80)
  
  Stands:
  
  
• Sanus Systems Wood Speaker Stands
  
  Receiver (hidden behind tv):
  
  
• Onkyo TX-NR509 Network Receiver. This thing is freaking awesome. I got it on sale from Amazon for $150. I control it with my phone, stream music from my phone, run the computer/turntable/game consoles through it.
  
  Cables:
  
  
• Dayton Audio SCP-6 6 Feet Speaker Cable Pair with Bananas.
  
  
• Mediabridge Sub Cable
  
  Preamp:
  
  
• Behringer PP400
  
  

Yes very clear. They obviously don't go very low due to their small size. A good subwoofer will make that not matter though.

Assuming you run those you would have ...around $480 to buy a sub with

https://www.reddit.com/r/Zeos/comments/5b1u99/guide_subwoofers/

You cant go wrong with SVS SB-1000 – 12”, 300 Watt DSP Controlled, Sealed Box Subwoofer (Black Ash) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Nn6DzbRB4805N for about $500 if size is a concern.

This would be way better then that bose setup for the same kind of $ and similar size.

I'd recommend the SVS SB1000. It's $100 more than your budget, but it's worth going over for it.

It's an incredible 12" sub, but it's actually really small so it will fit well in your small office space. (Smaller than many 8" subs!) It's sealed, not ported, so it's more musical than rumbly.

And while upgrading your speakers as well would be ideal, I disagree with everybody here. You don't HAVE to upgrade your speakers first. For some people, bass is the most important part of sound. 20-120 Hz is only 0.5% of audible frequencies; BUT, that's 26% of audible pitches. So with a sub you may be literally adding 30% of missing octaves to your sound, which is a much bigger upgrade than new speakers would give you.

And if you listen to bass-heavy music of any kind, you may actually be missing out on more than 26% of the pitches in your music.

yeah, you'd either have to split the rca's out to speakers and sub or you'd need to get a sub with line in and out. If you do get a sub, either get a good one for the price (i have the Dayton Sub 1200, which is very inexpensive and great for movies and games) or save up and get a solid entry level sub. I'm looking to add a svs sub 1000 (http://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB1000-12-inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1426787008&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=svs+sub+10000) to my musical setup. Sealed if you listen to more music, ported if you do more movies and gaming than music.

>Any thoughts on a small powered subwoofer to complement but not overpower?

This is the one I use nearfield. It's excellent, and tiny.

Got it. For TV and movies, I would recommend adding this center channel as there is a great sale on it (this'll put you near $250 with the receiver and bookshelf speakers). There is a better version with a crossover in it here if you want something a little higher quality, although it costs more. This center channel will give your shows/movies clearer dialogue, as a 2.0 setup can sometimes lose that detail.

With your living room open to other rooms, you will have to play with the placement of your speakers to make sure you are getting the best soundstage possible. There are lots of online resources, just google it or use the subreddits search function.

I'm the thrifty kinda guy.

Refurbished Denon receiver, 2 Micca bookshelves, a Micca center channel, and a Bic America subwoofer. About 700 bucks total. Sounds good enough for me. I know much better is out there but it's hard to justify the costs.

My Sennheiser HD598SE's are great ($150), and I have a FiiO E10K ($75) that they plug into at work, and at home I just plug them in directly since the onboard soundcard isn't too bad surprisingly on my motherboard. I have a Sony SRS-X5 bluetooth speaker plugged into the back of it as well. I have those cheap-ass sony ANC headphones (20 bucks at the time I bought them) and they get the job done at a cheap price for planes and for the AC unit blasting in my office (I know... killing me, 80db of white noise all day long).

I have a friend from work that spent 50,000 bucks on his setup. It sounds great, and it's worth it, but I couldn't spend that much on it.

I'm more of a headphone kinda guy. My next upgrade would probably be going all out on headphones. A pair of Sennheiser HD800's probably. That's in the far future, I got stuff I want to do around the house first.

These are my workout earbuds

They are a great value.

If you go with samsung avoid the onkyo receivers. I had major compatibility issues. I'm a fan of denons. I put together a little shopping list for you:

[Speakers] (http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1463872417&sr=8-21&keywords=atmos+speakers) $550
[television] (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/samsung-65-class-64-5-diag--led-2160p-smart-3d-4k-ultra-hd-tv-silver/5184121.p?id=1219646565339&skuId=5184121) $2000
[receiver] (http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-S710W-Channel-Receiver-Bluetooth/dp/B00ZIGUE8Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1463873137&sr=8-1&keywords=denon+s710w) $379

I'm not usually one for warranties but I recommend for the tv; I've been burnt before.

This would be my suggestion of what to buy for $3000. I'm sure most people on this sub would disagree with my more budget oriented picks. I'm just putting it out there.

Feel free to explain why I'm wrong.



Item | Price
---|---
VIZIO P-Series Quantum 65” | $1,500
Pioneer SP-PK52FS Andrew Jones 5.1 | $505
Denon AVRS740H | $403
100ft Speaker Wire | $13
Surge Protector | $25
Apple TV 4K or Nvidia Shield TV | $180
HDMI Cables (2x) | $13
Total | $2,666
|
Optional |
Banana Clips | $20
VESA Mount | $35
Atmos Speakers (In Ceiling) | $75
Atmos Speakers (Stand Alone) | $240



For 4K and HDR it is very important that your HDMI cables are capable of 18Gbps. I have never had any signal issues with Monoprice cables, and the slim form factor of these cables is ideal for cable routing and management. Two cables is the bare minimum you need to get up and running. Obviously buy the appropriate length and amount that you need.

**For the Atmos speakers you only need one of the two options. In-ceiling speakers are objectively the superior quality and cheaper option. But they are not realistic for everyone's living situation. That is why I included the stand-alone speaker option. The speakers I picked would replace your two surround speakers and act as both surround and Atmos channels.

If it were you which deal would you go with?

Deal 1:
Kipslch 5.1 speakers through best buy: one R-12SW, 2x R-15M, R-25C, 2x R-26F for $949
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/klipsch/klipsch-speakers/pcmcat165900050005.c?id=pcmcat165900050005

Deal 2:
Pioneer SP-PK52FS Andrew Jones 5.1 Home Theater Speaker Package for $439.95.
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2/ref=lp_15697751011_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1480373783&sr=1-5

Let me give a bit of background. I had a 5.0 (plus another sub) from Pioneer (Andrew Jones) that I liked for about 2yrs. It was good but I struggled to hear dialogue (which is a common issue with the center speaker). Luckily/unluckily my kid knocked over a tower and damaged a tweeter so I upgraded to speakers that retail for substantially more (I bought them used with warranty if that matters). I can hear details that simply didnt exist with the old speakers. Again I didnt dislike the older speakers but if I compared them side by side there is no way I would ever want the old ones back. Sometimes me and my family or friends will literally just sit in my room listening to music until 2am on a weeknight just because it's fun to re-experience the music.

Your test may be flawed as you might be playing lower quality content. Some of it may just be your lack of time with both speakers. I would think a week with one pair then a week with the other pair will help you hear the differences. This does NOT mean you will like the more expensive ones more, or even if you do they are worth the price increase to YOU. With that being said we use my home audio setup for 6+ hours a day, and even my wife can tell a difference with my upgrades (especially the subs lol).

After re-reading your comment YouTube audio is not very good. If you want something free you can use a blueray you already have, or get a free account to spotify (which is not as good as the premium $10/month account). Pick a song and play it on youtube, then immediately play the song on spotify. I did this recently when I told my buddy I try to avoid audio on YouTube now. He liked the song on Youtube, saying it sounded good. Then when I put spotify on he was able to immediately hear the difference. This is not an audiophile or someone with a home theater even, and he could tell the difference and said it was drastic (and this was with the free account).

The best thing for you to do is go listen to a few different types of speakers. Klipsh, Definitive Technology, B&W and Martin Logans are all at Best Buys with the Magnolia room, and all have different sound signatures. If you are interested you can check AVSForum for people near you that are willing to let you hear their setup. I did that with quiet a few people before I decided on my speakers. Ultimately what I decided was for Home Theater you want a good center channel and a great subwoofer. I heard Atmos and it was neat, but for ME I would rather have speakers that do better with music and not have the Atmos.

This isnt much different than picking a car. Not all cars are bad, even cheap ones, but they all serve different purposes. Defining your purpose goes a LONG way to figuring out which one(s) would work for you.


Also with all of that being said, I would likely DIY my next 5.1 if I was doing it all over again. LoL

I use my home audio/theater a LOT, so the marginal increase in cost was more justified for me, as I have since added dual 18" subwoofers and the more expensive LCR. I will be replacing the surrounds soon, but they really dont add much to the whole experience as long as they arent distorting.

To be direct - the speakers are junk, but in all seriousness if you like them that is all that matters.

Most people have never heard good surround sound, so most things will sound better than an internal TV speaker.

A good setup will cost you about $750 - $1000. Which is less than a good TV. Audio is just as important as picture to most of us.

For a receiver I recommend a Denon x2200 - $500
Denon AVR-X2200W 7.2 Channel Full 4K Ultra HD A/V Receiver with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZPTBNXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_KwWxyb03K5H3H

If you want to stay with the same size speakers, I recommend the Monoprice 5.1 - $250
Monoprice 10565 Premium 5.1 Channel Home Theater System with Subwoofer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EOZFUYI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_2tWxybG13S019

If you want slightly bigger speaker I recommend the Pioneer Andrew Jones 5.1 - $450
Pioneer SP-PK52FS Andrew Jones 5.1 Home Theater Speaker Package https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IK8I9K2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_svWxybHZANTBT

I have a yamaha RX-v781, and I love it. The RX-V381 should be similar, with a few missing features (and less channels)

If you're on a budget, but you want 5.1 right away, here's what I suggest you do. Get a receiver (I would go with the yamaha, the denon ones are good too), and get a cheap 5.1 package like this one:

https://www.monoprice.com/Product?p_id=10565&gclid=CjwKCAjwk4vMBRAgEiwA4ftLs3U_3omcZfIjWIXw1qOV9wsm4jF34_KqDB6plRu7X1NTaKTdTknuoBoCMjcQAvD_BwE

or this one (which is nicer):

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2

That way, you can replace speakers as you go and still have a complete system. And a year or two down the line, when you've completely swapped out the monoprice system, you'll only be out $150 instead of having to scrap a HTIB that could be $1000.

Also the 5.0 & 5.1 Floor Standing Home Theater Speaker Package are about 20% off right now.

You need to upgrade the speakers. At minimum the front three.

Remember the Jones Pioneers are very good for the money.

$399 plus free shipping for the 5.0 system

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-5-0-Theater-Speaker/dp/B00IRH0QMA/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1414446347&sr=8-6&keywords=andrew+jones

Add this ofr $270 and you are right about budget

http://www.amazon.com/NXG-Technology-NX-BAS-500-500-watt-Subwoofer/dp/B008FSTU4G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1414446517&sr=8-1&keywords=ngx+subwoofer

Frys often has good sales on Jamo speakers, but I'm not sure what's available in Europe. I've seen the S809 HCS 5 speaker set go as low as $399, so maybe you could get a good black Friday deal. The 803 set with bookshelf speakers is $269 right now, might be a decent option.

The Pioneer AJ set got some good initial reviews as a solid budget set, but I have seen some people complaining about it online after getting the set. The center channel in particular seems to be pretty lackluster based on user feedback.

The Sony Core series speakers get good reviews as a budget option. I've seen the bookshelf SSCS5 speakers go as low as $73 a pair and with black Friday coming up there might be some good deals on them.

For a decent sub you'll probably need to up your budget a little bit or wait until you can save a little more. The Bic PL200ii is a good sub for the price and often goes on sale for $250.

With black Friday deals maybe you could get the Jamo 803 set with a PL200ii sub within your budget or 4 Sony core bookshelf speakers and the matching SSCS8 center channel instead of the Jamos.

I'm pretty sure Bose speakers use the same type of wire normal speakers use.

Just cut the end offs and then strip the wire to get a bare wire. You can then add a banana plugs for ease or simply use bare wire.

For all wiring I use monoprice.com or home depot.

Why not grab some Andrew Jones Pioneers instead of the PSB? That would save them a lot of money and sound plenty good for them I bet.

Only 400 for the entire set.
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-5-0-Theater-Speaker/dp/B00IRH0QMA/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1481746756&sr=8-6&keywords=andrew%2Bjones%2Bpioneer%2Bspeakers&th=1

Of course I'm not saying your mom shouldn't get an amazing reference setup if she wants one, but for about 500 bucks you could probably make her very happy.

Pioneer SP-PK52FS Andrew Jones 5.0 Home Theater Speaker Package https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IRH0QMA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_RHXrybGWEACK8

Just to throw something out there:

Demon AVR x1200w $400
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ZY7FHXY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468090129&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=x1200w&dpPl=1&dpID=41L85EOBSQL&ref=plSrch

Pioneer Andrew Jones 5.0 Package $469

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IRH0QMA/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1468090427&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=andrew+jones+speakers&dpPl=1&dpID=41vhu%2Bs6yjL&ref=plSrch

Svs Pb-1000 $500

http://www.svsound.com/products/pb-1000

Just a thought. You can also change out those Andrew Jones for a Fluance setup and save yourself $200 bucks.

In a room this size you don't necessarily need floor standers with a good sub handling the lows, so don't be afraid to look at all bookshelves.

http://www.cardpool.com/sell/gift-cards-for-amazon-gift-card

Swap your Dell gift cards for Amazon gift cards. Your option #3 is $800 on Dell. Cardpool will give you a $695 Amazon gift card for $800 worth of Dell gift cards. That might sound like a crappy exchange, but Dell is HUGELY overcharging for those speakers.

$702 on Amazon will get you the same center speaker and better LR and sub.

• https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-15M-Bookshelf-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00LMF41IY
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Reference-Center-Channel-Loudspeaker/dp/B0040QW7KQ
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-12SW-R12SW-Subwoofer/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y
  
  So, you get a better system by swapping the gift cards and spending an extra $7.
  
  Your option #2 is $850 on Dell, or $723 on Amazon. Cardpool will give you $738 for $850 worth of Dell gift cards.
  
  The Dell price on option #1 is just as insane. Dell wants $599 for the R-10B, but you can get it on Amazon for $350. Or you can step up to the R-20B for $499 on Amazon.
  
  Of course, once you convert the Dell cards to Amazon cards, there are a ton of other options open to you too.

Use promo code 3127779 today and Sat. only. $370 at Amazon http://www.amazon.com//dp/B00MJ1YR8Y/

I am currently using the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 USB Audio Interface for my Rokit monitors. I see this 12 inch Klipsch sub-woofer is on sale from Amazon today and I'd like to add it to my setup but am unsure if I'll be able to connect it to my audio interface or if I'd have to purchase something else to get it hooked up. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

For budget subs (< $500) you have a quite a few popular choices:

• $348 Klipsch
  
• $199 Polk
  
• $157 Pioneer
  
  I'd highly recommend upgrading a better sub in the $500 .. $800 range:
  
  
• EMP Tek
  
• HSU
  
• Rythmik Audio
  
• SVS (Box)
  
• SVS (Cylinder) -- if space or WAF (Wife Approval Factor) is important
  
  Edit: Added SVS Cylinder sub link

You can buy a perfectly decent sub for $300.

I don't have any guaranteed good choices for you but if musicality is a priority, then possibly a sealed unit instead of a ported. Less boom, but more control.

And of course if you buy used, you can get even more bang for your buck.

But this all presupposes you're not happy with the levels of bass you get now. And with 4 inch woofers (or do I mean "woofers" in quotation marks - there are speakers out there with larger mid-range cones than that) you probably aren't exactly digging down to 20 Hz subsonics now. In point of fact, you're probably missing everything from 20 Hz up to 60 or 70 Hz (not sure, haven't seen the specs on those Pioneer speakers). So a sub would almost certainly give a serious boost to your sound.

For instance: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-12SW-Subwoofer/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y (and yeah, that's $350, so it's over your arbitrary budget choice). The 10-incher is under $300 though and would also give you quite an upgrade. Just as one example of a decent sub.

Have you bought any of the items yet?

I picked up the R-12SW from Amazon's Black Friday week or whatever it was called. You can see here that the price was $224. I can't guarantee it will get that low again, but you might want to wait around and see if Amazon lowers it to $360.

I wouldn't recommend anything that you linked. That Klipsch system isn't worth the money and subwoofer won't dig very deep. Spending $240 on the rears is too much money at this price point. I would go with:

AVR: Denon AVR-X1200 $320

Bookshelf L/R: Elac Debut B5 $200

Center: Elac Debut C5 $180

In-ceiling rears: Micca M-8C x2 $82

Subwoofer: BIC Acoustec PL-200 $249

Total: $1031

I would make the following changes:

• Do not spend $280 on that Klipsch subwoofer! It only goes down to 32Hz. For $30 less, get a BIC PL200, which goes down to 22Hz and has a more powerful amplifier.
  
  
• If you buy the Denon S710W from Accessories4Less, you can save $75 and get a refurbished model.
  
  
• You're spending too much on your ceiling speakers, they're almost the same price as your mains. I wouldn't spend more than $150 on a pair of in-ceilings.
  
  
• You didn't mention a screen, it will improve your image quality. The Wirecutter recommends Silver Tickets' screens for budget-oriented setups.
  
  I'm assuming you are aware of Klipsch's unique sound signature and are okay with the cranked-up treble. If not, you should demo some of their speakers before buying them. For your budget, I would get something from an internet-direct company like the Emotiva Airmotiv 5ch Bundle, but that's a personal preference.

>Budget $150/$250
Size of the room, unsure, This is silly, but its a house we are purchasing, Ive only walked through twice. Its roughly the size of a 2 car garage if that helps as its the space directly above. Double set of doors open into the hall.

That's fine. Ok, that's not too horribly big , lol and it's sealed so for the top end of that budget would be the BIC PL-200 at $249 currently on sale ( I've owned 2 of these in the past myself.) Better to put that money in a jar though and pull it back out when it's $400 -$600 and get either a ported HSU , Rythmik, SVS or Emp-tek but if that's the budget the BIC is the upper budget recommend and the Dayton 1200 at $135 shipped is my lower end recommend.

Vizio Soundbar. That's the 2015 model, the 2016 is like $50 more.

General consensus is that soundbars suck, and compared to a proper setup they do. However, I picked up this soundbar a couple months ago for my bedroom (didn't have space for receiver & bookshelf speakers) and couldn't be happier. Mounting it was a breeze and the sound quality is noticeably better than the tv's speakers which is all I wanted.

The tv remote controls the soundbar's volume like you're wanting (I have it connected via optical), soundbar auto detected the tv and worked right away.

If you're running a 2.1 sound system, it's entirely possible.

You have a couple of simple options (there are plenty of other solutions, but these are more or less off-the-shelf solutions):

1. You can just get some powered 2.1 computer speakers and plug them into your PC.
   
   
2. You can get a soundbar system. This Vizio one, for example, is bluetooth, even (though a wired system would probably be better sound quality):
   
   https://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY/

If you have room for it I would suggest just going for this guy Vizio 2.1 soundbar

Only reason I suggested that instead of computer speakers is it should yield a bit better sound, especially with the sub included, and you can use it with your computer off if you ever want to play anything via Bluetooth.

Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 has a pretty decent set of reviews as well, and they are at $39.99

https://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY

I have the SONOS playbar / sub / play:1's and they're great. Playbar on it's own it might leave you wanting.

If I may make a suggestion; I have another room in my house (Garage / man cave) where I needed a playbar but the SONOS would have been overkill. I purchased a VIZIO playbar from Amazon because it was like $90 and I could return it, plus the reviews were really good.

It sounds SO good. No joke man, I was blown away. Buy it from Amazon, if you don't like it just return it.

https://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY/ref=sr_1_1?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1481022226&sr=1-1&keywords=vizio+sound+bar

Hmm...that price range...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0
I have the previous AV 40s and they sounded pretty good! I haven't heard much about the update

If you can up your range, maybe check out the Audio Engine A2+

TT (inc. preamp): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pro-Ject-Elemental-Phono-USB-Turntable/dp/B00FZ646ZO/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1463243395&sr=8-4&keywords=pro-ject+elemental

that leaves a little over 100 of your British dollars ('pounds' or something ) to find speakers to feed into. These will do til you can make the upgrade to fancier stuff. https://www.amazon.co.uk/M-Audio-AV42-Reference-Speakers-Professional/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1463243542&sr=1-1&keywords=m-audio

I have M-Audio AV40s, which I believe have been replaced with the M-Audio AV42s. I think they're a pretty great pair of monitors for the price. While they might not be the loudest you can get for that price I never go near full volume, and they have a really clean sound. They also have slightly smaller ones (AV32) for under $100 / pair.

> emotiva airmotive 5

https://www.amazon.ca/Alesis-Elevate-Premium-Speaker-Monitor/dp/B00IWRDU14/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_9?ie=UTF8&refRID=1YNABJRHQ3CWVRA3W7CF

or

https://www.amazon.ca/M-Audio-AV42-Professional-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_10?ie=UTF8&refRID=1YNABJRHQ3CWVRA3W7CF

Similar pricing? Better value or just go with

https://www.amazon.ca/JBL-Professional-LSR305-Studio-Monitor/dp/B00DUKP37C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459360240&sr=8-1&keywords=Jbl+lsr305

yeah that's fair, space is always a factor. can you ballpark the rough dimensions of how much room you have? obviously the most compact solution is computer speakers, but like you said, you want something with better sound. there's smaller monitors, like these, so maybe these would fit better (there's also a 3" woofer variant, which is a bit cheaper and smaller). generally, Amazon reviews are quite truthful, so I'd buy based on that (plus secondary research) and get the best speaker that fits your space and budget

>how's [Edifier's] build quality

if I'm being 100% honest, I have no clue about that pair. a few years ago, I found a small (i.e. I think a 3" woofer) pair of Edifiers at good will. I tried them for a few hours, just to see if they were even worth keeping and they sounded good for what they were. but what I was most impressed with was their weight. most small speakers are light, but these ones seemed like pretty heavy. so at some point, Edifiers were built well. I have no idea if they still are, but the reviews are good

sorry I can't give you a more in depth answer or any proof to back up my claims, but hopefully I've given you enough info to find your way

I'd forgo an amp and spend your money on studio monitors + DAC.

Something like this plugs into your computer and outputs an analogue signal for either headphones or speakers.

Then, powered speakers like these. It will be a big upgrade from your logitech system, and fit your needs/budget. If you can find a used pair of M-audio AV-40's or bx5's, that would be ideal - this newer line seems to have poorer reviews.

Check out m-audio they make some kind of $100 type things which are quite good


Eg

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00X741TB0/ref=dp_ob_neva_mobile

I'm seeing this and crying:

https://www.amazon.es/Polk-Audio-T50-Altavoz-unidad/dp/B013LIN5W2

https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-T50-Theater-Standing/dp/B013LIN5W2

(I've seen it a lot cheaper in other sites, but the Amazon comparison is really crazy)

I have the x1300w, and just bought a BIC PL-200 II sub off of Amazon a month ago and I love it.

https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-II-Subwoofer/dp/B074131NKS/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511876896&sr=sr-1&keywords=pl-200+ii

Generally speaking, "all in one" packages (AKA, Home Theater in a Box) are less quality than buying the pieces yourself. The Phillips unit you linked seems to be a pretty low end package. with everything being powered by the all in one receiver/bluray player. I can promise you, this isn't pushing anywhere close to 1000 watts.

Don't concern yourself with the power rating. In most cases, its nothing more than an advertizing number for these All in one packages. They are likely quoting the max power handing of each speaker, and adding them together, which is unlikely to ever actually be hit.

My suggestion, check out a place like Accessories4less.com and buy a refurbished receiver (I highly recommend Denon, but if you like Yamaha, thats fine as well) you can save a decent amount by going with a refurb, and it carries the same warranty. I've had 2 refurb Denon's and they've been rock solid for me.

For speakers, you want to spend the bulk of your money on the front 3 (Left, Center and Right) as thats where the majority of your sound is coming from. You want to make sure all 3 speakers match.

If you get a good subwoofer, you usually don't need floorstanding speakers. You can save a dcent amount of money by going with bookshelf speakers for the fronts, and just getting cheap speaker stands on amazon for $50 or so.

As an example, many people love the HTD level 3 speakers, the bookshelf version are $379 for the pair, the floorstanding version is $800 for the pair. (quite the difference!) I've listened to the Bookshelf versions, and they are plenty loud, and sound fantastic in my opinion.

For subwoofers, I like to reference the Subwoofer Guide from /r/Zeos Pick the best one your budget and space allow.

To put together a quick system.
$250 for this Denon refurb receiver
$379 for the HTD level 3 speakers
$229 for the HTD L3 matching center
$299 for and the Bic Subwoofer
Total price: $1157
Add in another $100 for speaker stands, a roll of speaker wire and HDMI cables, and you're around $1200 for a pretty decent home theater setup, that I guarantee will blow your current setup out of the water.

Bic Acoustech PL-200 Subwoofer - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OFXV5IO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_p43azb6KPQWXD.

Add these...

BIC America Venturi DV64 2-Way Tower Speaker, Black (Single) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00011KLOI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_H83azbPJTWW6M

And these...
BIC America DV62si Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006JPDI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_m93azbQ5KSMEM

Can't find the center channel model right now, will post later. Edit found it! BIC America DV-62CLRS 6-Inch 2-Way Center Channel Speaker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009WBYL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_k79azbVHSM7VV

They sound incredible!!

This thing thumps. It's $3 over budget but well worth it.

Bic accoustech pl-200

http://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B00OFXV5IO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417887891&sr=8-1&keywords=bic+acoustech+pl-200

Have you considered the BIC PL-200

http://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B00OFXV5IO

It can be had for ~$280 by purchasing from Sound Distributors directly.

Good call. I forgot to include the sub. I was looking at a variety of things so never pulled the trigger on one.

Klipsch R-10SW

ELAC S10

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer

I did see that Amazon has it at $250 right now. It was $330 when I was originally shopping around:
https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B00OFXV5IO

Subwoofer – $249

Front L-R - $750 pr BIC Acoustech PL-980L-PL-980R

Center Speaker – $199 BIC Acoustech PL-28II Center Speaker

Surrounds — $239 pr BIC Acoustech PL-66 Surround Speakers


Best Buy does sell BIC America – just the crappy ones. See if they will order these and price match Amazon. I haven't done the calculations but I think that brings you right in at 1200+ the sub. Or see if you can sell your Best Buy GC. All the speakers have 5-7 your warranties and should last you 15+ years. IMHO

awesome idea. I do have a smaller apartment and believe the echo will hear me from anywhere in it so this may be a better solution. i found this on on amazon and it says you can disable the eco feature that turns it off after no activity. sound bar

Not sure if it's the same one Dan has...

https://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1510189701&sr=1-6&keywords=soundbar

I have this one. It replaced an older Sony sound bar with built in subwoofer. I am really happy with it. The sound quality is noticeably better than my old one and $150 is a steal.

The only issue with it is as some of the reviewers stated it will occasionally cut out and require a factory reset to get working again. I've only had to do that twice in the year or so I've owned it so don't consider that big of an issue.

http://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY



That is the one ive been using for a while. It really bumps hard and produces nice sound. I only paid 128 for mine though so you could probably find it somewhere around that price

Here’s the soundbar I have. Sounds great and gets really loud.

There’s other cheaper ones, but that’s the one I recommend. Also you can plug in a BT speaker or w/e via aux if the TV supports it.

Spend the extra money on sound, or did you just plan on using the TV speakers? I know everybody dumps on soundbars, but my parents have this and I really like the sound and bass for movies. Wireless setups are SO NICE.

https://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY/ref=sr_1_4

VIZIO SB3821-C6 38-Inch 2.1 Channel Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer

$158 before shipping. Minimal and subdued design with a big sound for small to medium sized rooms. Wireless sub is nice for hiding away somewhere. It can be connected to via bluetooth.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SMBG8QY/

well i was using some logitech 5.1 (surround sound) speakers which i sold for £40 on ebay to go towards my new speajkers. Richer sounds are a great shop imo and they always give you help and advice so i would look at the speakers there .

I got the Monitor Audio MR1s and there is so much difference between my old ones, crisper highs/treble and over all clearer sound, its very hard to explain how they sound better but trust me.

Types of speakers:
There are mainly 2 types, powered and non-powered.

Powered: They have a built in amp and plug into a wall socket for power and then go straight into your PC, they are easy to set up but some people like to have a separate amp (im also new to this so im not to sure why)

Non-Powered: They are just speakers and on there own cant produce sound as they dont have any power, which is where the amp/amplifier comes in. The amp just gives the speakers power so that they are able to produce sound and connect to a PC ect.

the bigger the speakers the bigger the amp needs to be to give it enough power.

I would go to richer sounds if you have one near you and ask for a demo for some speakers around £100 if you can and im sure you will notice a difference. Also watch some videos about audio and why some speakers are better than others.
Im also very new to this, i got my first pair 2 weeks ago.

These are some good powered speakers that will probs beat cheaper multimedia ones on the cheap:

M-Audio AV32

M-Audio AV42

Mackie CR4

These are some good non powered speakers and amps on the cheap:

MORDAUNT SHORT M20 AND SMSL SA-36A

Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 AND SMSL SA-36A

BTW the amp ive chosen will power them on a desk but might not be great for a big room.

Hope this helps :)

So you think quality doesn't vary between cheaper and pricey monitors?

My room isn't really that small, but walls are mostly covered with acoustic foam + some DIY stuff that prevent echoing and else.

Do you think any of these would be good?
Behringer MS16

Behringer MEDIA 40USB

M-Audio AV42

I have some old logitech z4's @2.1 and they are boss! Are you doing this for a desk or a home theater setup? I personally think 2.1 is all you need for a desk setup. here are some good options:

Klipsch

M-Audio

Might I recommend consulting this mans guide. (American prices) The list is a little dated, but his opinions are respected. His youtube has many more recent reviews.

Otherwise, from personal experience, I use M-Audio Av42s. I think they're decent, but something with a larger driver would be preferred.

/u/dogeatdawg linked good resources below. I produce music, and I gotta say, the best bang for your buck is getting a pair of M-AUDIO monitors: https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-20-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

You could also add a subwoofer to that setup if you're super concerned about bass, but I've never had to worry about that (and I'm a bassist!). These things get insanely loud and they produce crystal-clear, faithful audio pictures.

Thanks for the help, I've had a few recommendations for Yamaha gear so will look into that.

I quite like the look of the recommended Micca purchases in the original text of this thread, unfortunately it doesn't look like there is any way to ship to the UK. I have, however, spotted these on Amazon - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00X741TB0

A few pals have said good things about M-Audio, would you recommend this product?

Thanks again

also these if you can throw the extra money

https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-20-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TB0

Some M-Audio monitor speakers are cheap, check [these] (https://www.amazon.co.uk/M-Audio-Reference-Speakers-Professional-Creation/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=s9u_wish_gw_i4?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1PCP9HQHG676B&coliid=I34UT1O3ZZVH68&fpl=fresh&pd_rd_i=B00X741TB0&pd_rd_r=74RW439VB8DQ9DKG5QM1&pd_rd_w=LU7qS&pd_rd_wg=lEk0F&pf_rd_i=desktop&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_r=7GQC13HQD7G5X2VSJ1DB&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=26de8ef0-2ad7-412c-8634-6cd03b7b73e2) out

If you want really, really affordable, the Parts Express Lepy 2020TI + Dayton B652 bundle for $50 gets you good sound for stupid cheap. Or you can get that Lepy amp standalone, as it's a solid budget unit, and pair it with something like the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers, which are a great pair of bookshelf speakers for $100. The Klipsch R-15M are a great pair for a little over $150.

Also:

Sony SCSS5 - https://www.amazon.com/Sony-SSCS5-3-Driver-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00O8YLMVA $138

BIC Venturi DV62si - https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-DV62si-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00006JPDI $117

Polk S15, refurbished - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TJ4D2LZ/ref=dp_cr_wdg_tit_rfb $166

Yamaha NS-6490 - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00018Q4GA $130

Fluance SX6W - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00067OS0A $130

M-Audio AV42 - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0 $150

Or you could look for vintage, but bookshelf speakers tended to either be gigantic and heavy (like my Bozak B-201 or B-402, which are bookshelf speakers in name only) or sound weak.

Sorry for the delay. Those are m-audio av42

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NQHQDb0XTZB5K

Hey guys, my old set of Klipsch Promedia 2.1 speakers just died. I've been out of the loop on speaker technology for a while so I need some advice. I don't do production and I only play games and listen to music, but I do enjoy good quality sound. I also enjoy bass but I could never use the Klipsch at full capacity or it would blow out my eardrums lol. These speakers would be on a desktop, and I'd say my budget is $200 but I'll splurge a little more if the product is worth a premium.

That said, it seems like another set of Promedia's or the Logitech Z623 are the popular gamer choices, but then I looked deeper and saw that some users recommend powered speakers instead.

I'm not really sure where to start with those, but below are some recommendations based on what I've researched. How could I compare these speakers apples to apples? I'm a noob when it comes to audio knowledge.

M-Audio AV42 (Couldn't find AV40 in stock):

https://us.amazon.com/M-Audio-Reference-Speakers-Professional-Immersive/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

M-Audio BX5 D3

https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-BX5-D3-Production-Recording/dp/B01J66YEU0/ref=pd_sbs_147_img_0/132-9931273-2241557?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01J66YEU0&pd_rd_r=a50dceed-5410-46e7-b3cb-7bc6bdce1686&pd_rd_w=01y28&pd_rd_wg=BjCZY&pf_rd_p=5cfcfe89-300f-47d2-b1ad-a4e27203a02a&pf_rd_r=Q2B9PDF9JMV364Q4W38E&psc=1&refRID=Q2B9PDF9JMV364Q4W38E

PreSonus Eris E4.5

https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-BX5-D3-Production-Recording/dp/B01J66YEU0/ref=pd_sbs_147_img_0/132-9931273-2241557?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01J66YEU0&pd_rd_r=a50dceed-5410-46e7-b3cb-7bc6bdce1686&pd_rd_w=01y28&pd_rd_wg=BjCZY&pf_rd_p=5cfcfe89-300f-47d2-b1ad-a4e27203a02a&pf_rd_r=Q2B9PDF9JMV364Q4W38E&psc=1&refRID=Q2B9PDF9JMV364Q4W38E

So you just want to get it working? Just buy the best active speakers you can, something like these and be done with it.

I am new to the home theater/audio hobby. I am looking to start simple with my new HT setup. I have a receiver, but am looking for new speakers. Can I start with just a front left/right? Are these viable options?

• bookshelves
  
  
• floorstanding
  
  or
  
  
• wall mounted
  
  Any insight would be much appreciated!
  
  Thanks.

I'm leaning towards the following:

Towers
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-T50-Theater-Standing/dp/B013LIN5W2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1464921420&sr=8-1&keywords=polk+t50

Center
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B0018QROM2/ref=pd_sim_23_4?ie=UTF8&dpID=310-vc0k7EL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL320_SR320%2C320_&refRID=0KEK71K2FCKEXECZ3QJS

Sub
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-10-Inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B0002KVQBA/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=05VHEM90X8A7PTNZZT4K

While 2 of 3 of these tops Amazon's #1 list on those categories I wanted to get more input.

As far as speakers, do you recommend these, these, or these?

Would this be a good choice for my receiver? I would of course order it from accessories4less.

How about this? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013LIN5W2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_15hBDbR06QH7E

For $500, you're going to need to buy used if you want some big speakers.

There are a few new options though:
https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-T50-Theater-Standing/dp/B013LIN5W2

Or
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-FS52-Designed-standing-Loudspeaker/dp/B008NCD2S4


Here's a nice stereo integrated amplifier:
http://www.parts-express.com/onkyo-a-9010-hi-fi-integrated-amplifier-44-watts-per-channel--252-526?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pla

Here's a cheaper one:
https://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX8020-TX-8020-Stereo-Receiver/dp/B00EE18O7W

>Floor standing speakers (Link): Cheap and well reviewed
>
>subwoofer (Link): Again cheap and well reviewed.

Well reviewed... ON AMAZON.

​

Never. Trust. Electronics. Reviews. On. Amazon. It's borderline amazing those fucking mouthbreathers can operate a keyboard and mouse, they certainly are not qualified to leave audio equipment reviews.


The Polk T50 towers are... Livable, if you literally MUST have towers and have NO money to spend.


The PSW10 subwoofer is one of the biggest mistakes you could ever make in a subwoofer. STraight hot garbage that does next-to-nothing well.

I dont see these mentioned.

Sony SSCS3 $159 each but can find sales for $99 each

Polk T50 $99 Each

If I had $300 to spend on floorstanders that I'm worried about bass, I'd probably go the bookshelf and stand route.

Is this any good? https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-T50-Theater-Standing/dp/B013LIN5W2 (Polk t50)

Hi,

I've posted in this thread before but got no replies. I'll try again.

Looking for a budget setup for my friends wedding present.
Looking for a 2.1 system with tower speakers.

Currently have my eye on the polk T50's
https://www.amazon.ca/Polk-Audio-T50-Speaker-Single/dp/B013LIN5W2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522449823&sr=8-1&keywords=polk+t50


Total budget is 750$ CAD.

Anyone have a better set of tower speakers to buy? What kind of receiver/sub should i pair with these to keep it in budget?

Thanks!

Too. Many. Different. Ways. To. Do. This.....

Ok lets get a few options and then decide what to go for...

1. 2x JBL LSR305 for 135€ each + 12€ cable + under 100€ active sub that I can add later (still need a suggstion D:)
   
   
2. Polk Audio T50 for 150€ a pair and an amp (which one? D:)? That would be enough?
   
   I guess I will do one of these... I would love to have more options for different speakers but there aren't that many quality speakers for a good price on Amazon.
   
   That tower options sounds really good but then again a lot of people write that you should get bookshelf speakers and add a subwoofer later instead. Could you do me a favor and try to find a good powered subwoofer for under 100€ on amazon.de ? I still got 0 recommendations about that...
   
   edit: nvm seems to be each and not for a pair

Do you think these are a great buy on sale or comparable? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013LIN5W2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?tag=slickappfp-20&ascsubtag=5e6aed66dea811e681d2f2c25c54a6070INT&ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

I don;t know much about them, but the polk audio t50 towers are $75 on amazon now. They are normally $120 a piece.

Maybe those and a $50 craigslist receiver. Curios if something like the smsl 60 can power them....

http://camelcamelcamel.com/Polk-Audio-T50-Theater-Standing/product/B013LIN5W2?context=browse

If you want everything around $1,000 here's a decent plan.

Receiver Denon 1500 for $300 https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrx1500h/denon-avr-x1500h-7.2-ch-x-80-watts-a/v-receiver-w/heos/1.html

Subwoofer Bic PL200 II for $300
https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-II-Subwoofer/dp/B074131NKS

Front L/R NHT SuperOne (2 of them)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperOne-2-1-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00LJX4HCY/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=nht+super&qid=1566675258&s=electronics&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzTTRER1RCUVk0NUdWJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODc2MDc4MUVCNDJUT0VHSjlDMyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjkwNzU3VUFISldVUFowWllOJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

Center NHT Super Center
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-Super-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00QHDC32C/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=nht+super&qid=1566675307&s=electronics&sr=1-4

Surround L/R (2 of them)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=nht+super&qid=1566675307&s=electronics&sr=1-5

With a bit bigger budget you would still want that receiver. Bump the subwoofer up to the SVS PB-1000 (most likely). And end up with a lot of different speaker options to consider.

I see lots of commenters recommending high-end stuff which is understandable since you are building your own house and having a large dedicated space for a banging HT. A good 7 channel receiver plus a subwoofer powerful enough for your large room will add up to $1000 pretty quick. Heck, I'd reccomend two subwoofers for a space that large. I will probably get downvoted, but let me help you find some more budget friendly choices.

Receiver $300 - DENON
AVR-X1400H

Subwoofer $300 - Bic Acoustech PL-200 II

Front LR $200 - Fluance Signature Series

* Matching Center - $150

Surround and Rear Surrounds - Micca MB42X 2x$80

This puts you just slightly over budget. also factor in speaker mounts / shelves / stands, cables, etc.... There's obviously lots of options and everyone has their own opinions. Have fun researching, I hope this helps!

If you’re on a tight budget then this is an excellent sub for the money: https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-II-Subwoofer/dp/B074131NKS

2 of them would be fantastic.

If you’re willing to spend more than that then look at SVS, Rythmik, Monolith, and REL

Yeah, Amazon has its perks. I think the Mordaunt Short Carnival 1s look great. Never heard them before I'm tempted to buy them to find out. Anyone got anything to say bout them? They are $150 on Amazon. They look rather small though. BTW, I see what you're saying about cincinatti craigslist, wow.

Also, what about this.

But why? Those are great if you don't have an amp or receiver but you have a perfectly good amp in that old Denon. Your $150 will go further if you buy the best passive speaker possible.

At $150 there are some good passive speaker options.

Polk Audio Monitor 40 Series II are a good choice and shouldn't sound thin without a subwoofer. $104 on Newegg right now. https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882290202

JBL Arena B17 https://www.amazon.com/JBL-Arena-B17-Black-Bookshelf/dp/B072MYY7KD/

BIC DV62si https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-DV62si-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00006JPDI/

Receiver: Denon X1300W - $319 at A4L.

Fronts: BIC DV64 Towers - $115.75/ea at Amazon

Center: BIC DV62CLS - $104.89 at Amazon

Subwoofer: BIC F12 - $195 at Amazon

Surrounds: BIC DV62si - $119.95/pair at Amazon

I just did a setup similar to this for my basement (except I went with cheaper Daytons for surrounds so I could experiment with 7.1). I have to say, these BICs are absolutely fantastic for the money, and the whole system really came alive after running Audyssey.

Upstairs I have the Pioneer FS52/C22/BS22 setup, and the BICs are far better in my opinion. That Pioneer setup gets recommended a lot as a good entry-level setup, but in my opinion it just isn't that fantastic. The FS52 towers are great for music, but the center is lackluster and sounds "empty" in comparison for movies.

Hey, been having trouble deciding between similarly priced bookshelves in the $90-$130 range. Here are the speakers I'm looking at. I'll be using these for my 12' x 12' bedroom to listen to music.

Klipsch KB-15 - $130

BIC America DV62si - $105

Fluance SX6 - $130

Pioneer BS22 - $97(Probably the safest option , lots of nice reviews)

Polk Audio TSi100 - $130

Polk Audio T15 - $109

Honestly I could go on and on, there are a lot of speakers in that price range with good reviews on amazon.

this might be a good small sub for u

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=8248

I own the BIC's big brothers, the DVI 62s and they are great.
https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-DV62si-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00006JPDI

I own a pair of BIC America dv62si speakers. They're a little larger than typical bookshelf speakers but they sound great and are very efficient.

The price is good as well

BIC Venturi DV62SI Bookshelf speakers

Nobsound Tone Amp/BT/DAC/Headphones

And some speaker wire. Wait until you can spend $200 or so on a decent sub or find a good used one. The Nobsound can plug directly into a USB port and function as an external DAC, so you would have less worries about any interference. Also has a handy 3.5 port for headphones if you need it.

About 15 years ago, I acquired some BIC bookshelf speakers which I've been very pleased with ever since. I used them for my DJ monitors for a long time and now they reside in my living room for my front L/R channels (considering buying their center channel too). I can't speak for their current models, but they seem to have decent reviews. Around $100 on Amazon.

Does anybody have advice for passive speakers for the following setup? I have a Pioneer VSX-524 receiver (https://www.cnet.com/products/pioneer-vsx-524-av-receiver-5-1-channel/) and a U-Turn Orbit Basic record player. I'd like to spend ~$150, and it should be from Amazon because I have a gift card. I figured passive would be the way to go because I already have a receiver. I'm in Baltimore, if that matters. I had my eye on these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006JPDI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AED492BX4II6G&psc=1, but wasn't sure if they were okay for the money, or if there was a better option. Thanks!

Alright, so I'm just starting to get into speakers/audiophile type stuff and I'm a complete novice to the whole thing, so hang with me. I just want to get a decent setup for a decent price so I found these BIC America dv62si's on Amazon for around $75 (including shipping!) so I was pretty psyched on that.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00006JPDI/ref=gp_aw_ybh_l_1?pi=SL500_SR419%2C500&refRID=0GR9EGR0QVEKMW5PNBHN

It said they recommend an amp that pushes 10-150 watts, so I just bought a cheap Lepai lP-2020A+ but people say that they really only push like 10w per channel because of they power adapter? I think they fixed it though because mine looks different than all the old reviews that say this, but then again i'm really not sure and I don't really know. I just don't want to underpower the speakers just because I'm on a budget. Here's a pic of the one that came with mine - http://imgur.com/QaddeUp

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0049P6OTI/ref=gp_aw_ybh_l_7?pi=SL500_SR500%2C208&refRID=0GR9EGR0QVEKMW5PNBHN

Also I have a 2 Sony SA-W2500 sub woofers given to me. I was wondering if there was anyway to include one into this setup? It plugs into the wall and I think that I can just wire it through its in-out ports on the back and it would power itself? Would this sound any good in this setup? Also my room size is 12x9 ft

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000OL3QTW/ref=gp_aw_ybh_l_2?pi=SL500_SR200%2C200&refRID=0GR9EGR0QVEKMW5PNBHN

Thanks a lot :)

AKG K240S headphones, FiiO E10 USB DAC/headphone amplifier, MacBook Pro 13" laptop.


Can't wait to get my Onkyo receiver and my KRK ST6 speakers hooked back up. Also just ordered a new Lepai amplifier and some BIC America DV62si's to try!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049P6OTI/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006JPDI/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00


Just wanted to share, cheers!


Also, thanks for all the awesome advice and help from everyone @ /r/audiophile -- I've been working on my system(s) and have already learned a lot from y'all!

Hey guys, just purchased these Polk TSI 100s:
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12

I have a small studio apartment and don't want to have a giant receiver, but I don't understand how watts work with ohms so I don't feel comfortable buying one of those mini amps without asking first. I'd like to go pretty low on price, but could do up to $150 if it's got a lot of inputs or features. Any advice?

You'll need a record player, wether that is by means of free or purchase, you most likely need an amp also, and speakers.
I would recommend the Audio Technica AtLp60. It's cheap at 100 bucks but gets the job done. Next get an amp. For both of these, look to Amazon. Pick up a used or open box Sony Strdh190. If you don't have one, get an Amazon card, use the gift card to help defray the cost. You could get a beans new amp for less that 100. I recommend this one cause it has a phono input. The AT60 I recommend has a preamp I believe, so you'll actually want to hook it up to input 1. But, this allows you to upgrade your turntable if you come across something better at a thrift store or from a friend later. Not all turntables have preamps, if they don't, hook it to the phono input. If they do, line 1.
If you choose to get into cassettes or CD, you also have inputs for those decks as you come across them cheap.
Speakers. With this setup, you'll want speakers that can handle the newer power levels of a modern amp. 100watts. 6 or 8 ohms. Something like a pair of Klipsch bookshelf speakers. The RM 15 I believe is a affordable, new, good sounding speaker. Or some Polks of the same power.
All this, and your set. This isn't going to be everyone's setup, but it gets you started, listenable sound, and upgradable. All this can be had relatively affordable. 100 for the turntable, 125 for the speakers, and less than 150 for the amp if you buy it new. Until you understand more about turntables, avoid used is my suggestion, buy affordable new, nothing to do but follow the instructions.

Sony STRDH190 2-ch Stereo Receiver with Phono Inputs & Bluetooth https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078WFDR8D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hgWnDb8R2HGM2


Audio-Technica ATLP60 Fully Automatic Stereo Belt Drive Turntable - (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008872SIO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hhWnDbN5KDF61


Polk Audio TSi100 Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00192KF12/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CiWnDb6W6STNP


Klipsch R-15M Bookshelf Speaker (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LMF41IY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WjWnDbS7BKBQS


These are all direct to Amazon links. Look in the used sections to get a deal on some of these and save a few bucks.
Someone mentioned it already also. Do this to love the music. Don't collect records to collect records, it's a rabbit hole of money. Just but the bands you like. Listen to an album online before you buy it to see if you'll like it if you don't know who they are. About the elusive 1dollar bin at the record store. Those records may or may not be in great shape, and do you REALLY care about polkas greatest hits from 1963? All your dad or uncles what they listen to and look for some of those records to rock out to.
Good luck. Hope this helps.

PS, my prices mentioned and names of equipment were approximate, go with what's in the links.

I'm more concerned with movies than music, plus I don't have a ton of room. After a bit of searching with your suggestions, I found these bookshelf speakers and this sub. Between the speakers and the receiver, it'll put me at $700, right in my budget.

Are there any cables or wires I need to pick up, or do speakers usually come with what is needed?

Ive got a couple more questions if you can maybe answer.

This is my center speaker: https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B000V2SEYQ

And these are my surrounds: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00192KF12?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Would I set the center as small or large? How about the surrounds? I went large and small respectively. I'm waiting on a YPAO replacement mic so I can run it as mine was damaged out the box. I have big tower Polk fronts those were obvious and I set them to large.

TIA for any help appreciate it

Hello I have a POLK PSW10 Subwoofer, along with two Polk TSI100 bookshelf speakers. I was told I would need an amp to power this system, so I was needing help figuring out what amp I should purchase. I do not have much money to spend ~ $100.

Links to what I have:

[TSI100 Bookshelf speakers](https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12)

[PSW10 Subwoofer](https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-PSW10-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B0002KVQBA/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_3/140-6661619-8896241?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0002KVQBA&pd_rd_r=9f5ca9c7-d3db-4fea-baae-272fadfa5aa7&pd_rd_w=QHypg&pd_rd_wg=KYjo1&pf_rd_p=09627863-9889-4290-b90a-5e9f86682449&pf_rd_r=8YR47SERGPAK8V63FEWB&psc=1&refRID=8YR47SERGPAK8V63FEWB)

​

Thank you

If you want something new and bookshelf sized, I recommend my Polk Audio TSi100's. Great sound in a small package.

Of course, you're better searching craigslist and hunting down a deal on some nicer used speakers, but those Polk's will get the job done for sure.

Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01EMQI2CU/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1519841814&sr=8-2-fkmr1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=yahama+stereo+receiver


Audio Technica AT-LP60B Turntable
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008872SIO/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1519841897&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=turntable&dpPl=1&dpID=41r7Qsa8SUL&ref=plSrch


Polk Audio TSi100 Bookshelf Speakers
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00192KF12/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1519841960&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=polk+bookshelf+speaker&dpPl=1&dpID=410nZ6jqYQL&ref=plSrch



Sorry for the late response. This is definitely a budget setup but honestly it sounds awesome. I couldn’t be happier with this setup.

Hey! I could use some help with adding a subwoofer to my setup. Currently I run a Sherwood RX-4508 to Polk Tsi150 bookshelf speakers to play my vinyl. I wanted to add a subwoofer to the setup, so I added the Polk PSW303. Since my receiver doesn't have a dedicated subwoofer input, I simply connected it with speaker wire, just as I did with my speakers. When I play any record, the sound will play for maybe 4 seconds before the entire receiver shuts down (then I have to unplug it and replug it in for it to come back on). I have no idea where to start diagnosing the problem. Any advice would be appreciated- thank you!

My Onkyo TX-8020 receiver is no longer working (my stupid mistake) and I am looking for a decent replacement. $200-300 is my budget, I suppose. I currently have a pair of Polk TSi100 bookshelf speakers and a BIC F12 sub. I do intend on upgrading in the future, but most likely not to 5.1, so I'll be replacing the speakers first. Any suggestions on a decent receiver?

edit: I have my receiver connected to my comp via an ASUS Essence STX sound card. I don't know if this would influence anything at all.

What about these Polk Audio TSi100 Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black)
http://amzn.com/B00192KF12

These Behringer EUROLIVE B215XL 1000-Watt 2-Way Pa Speaker System with 15 Woofer And 1.75 Titanium Compression Driver (Black)
http://amzn.com/B0023C6H64

These JBL ES20 High-Performance 3-Way Bookshelf Speakers (Black, Pair)
http://amzn.com/B00167340E

Or these Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Designed Bookshelf Loudspeakers
http://amzn.com/B008NCD2LG

This is so hard finding a right pair of speakers I'm about to give up.

My recommendation is do NOT get a sound bar! You can get much better sound for the money and bars are notoriously bad, even the higher end versions. If you can spend up to $500, I would get a pair of Monitor Audio Bronze 2's. For $200 less, you can pick up some KEFQ100s (I use the Q500s for gaming personally). These are both passive speakers meaning you will need an audio visual receiver to power them, but you can pick one of those up very cheap on craigslist. If you do not have an amp/avr to power these, I would get these:

Speakers: https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q100-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B0047K3X1M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511213706&sr=8-1&keywords=q100

AVR:https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-RX-V381BL-Receiver-Black/dp/B01BY7YOAY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1511213787&sr=1-1&keywords=rx-v381

If you already have an amp/avr *or can get one for free/cheap on craigslist, I would get these:https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1511213758&sr=1-3&keywords=bronze+2


Both of these options are highly regarded in the audiophile world and receive great reviews by reputable audiophile groups like WhatHiFi. The best part is if you decide to upgrade your sound system or want to use them for something else, they will be great stereo speakers that you can use somewhere else in your house. If you buy a soundbar it's use is limited and it provides very low quality imaging.

Right, I think I've finally figured out what amp and speakers to buy. What do you think of a Pioneer NC-50DAB-B and Monitor Audio Bronze 2 speakers?
Links:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-2-Walnut/dp/B002LPTH92/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497537265&sr=8-1&keywords=Monitor+Audio+Bronze+2
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01M1MXTS8/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1Q9VK43HAN4C&coliid=I2HN3FK355B6BB&psc=1

Hey guys. I have onkyo a-9010 amp and I would like to connect it to PC with the best result in term of quality of sound. At the moment it is connected from PC to cheap dac with optical cable, then from DAC to amp with cheap RCA cables. Sound is ok, but I wonder if it can be better by using other things. What do you guys recommend? My onkyo is UK model, there is no any optical input in opposite to EU version.

DAC: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Digital-Toslink-Converter-Adapter-Optical-Black-96-Khz-2-0ch/dp/B00KNNSKV0/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_23_bs_tr_t_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=CVXDZ7S5SB6DBBN85GHP

Amp: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Onkyo-A-9010-UK-Integrated-Amplifier/dp/B00SH2JSJW

Speakers: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-2-Walnut/dp/B002LPTH92

Since you already have an amp, you have lot of options. People love the KEF Q300 and the Monitor Audio Bronze 2, plus both are front ported, which is good if you'll be near a wall. There's also a lot of talk here about Elac, Wharfedale, DT, and so many others. Though the best deal is probably to buy used off of craigslist or ebay (local pickup).

I just saw this on slickdeals: Monitor Audio Bronze speakers 25% off

Bronze 2 Bookshelves (pair) [amazon.com]: $375 (normally $500)

link

Edit: I haven't heard these...I do have JBL 530 and am a bit underwhelmed by them.

Ahh good find! If you’re not familiar, camel camel camel is an amazing tool and you can set alerts to come straight to your email! Always be sure to check both amazon and 3rd party new if they have both :)

https://camelcamelcamel.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/product/B002LPTH92?context=search

I'll be upgrading my speakers. Right now, I'm thinking of two different options.

1. [Klipsch RB-51] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0040LG96O/ref=gno_cart_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3MHJLSLQR2CVH) Bookshelf speakers
   
2. Cerwin Vega 3-way tower speakers
   
   Any other suggestions?

I do have a sub, but Im talking about RB-51 and RB-61, which arent towers. The only difference I can see is that the woofer seems to get bigger and the frequency response is able to go lower. Frankly, I don't have an idea how much of an impact that would make, if any.

Save your money and do it right. You don't have to go crazy, but something like this would be great. I have the RB-61s and for home theater couldnt ask for more. Then add matching center, and surrounds, and good subwoofer. Take your time, spend just a little more and get something much better.
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Reference-Series-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B0040LG96O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411071176&sr=8-1&keywords=klipsch+rb-51

How large is your bar?

For a small bar I would just use some nice Hifi speakers mounted to the ceiling.
https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RB-51-Bookshelf-Speakers-Dimensions/dp/B0040LG96O/ref=sr_1_27?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1540032535&sr=1-27&keywords=bookshelf+speakers

For larger rooms / bars maybe small flyable (ceiling mountable) speakers.
QSC K8.2
LD Systems Stinger 8A G3

Currently have a setup with Klipsch RB-51 IIs, but my roommate's taking them when he moves out. How would the JBL 305P MkIIs compare?

For usage, I'd like to have the speakers output my television's audio, and also connect to my chromecast audio. Would a Rolls MX42 Stereo Mini Mixer suffice for this? Is there any quality drop by relaying the signal through a mixer? Trying to avoid purchasing a receiver for this simple task.

Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0040LG96O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427745650&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40&keywords=klipsch+bookshelf+speakers&dpPl=1&dpID=414t%2BYnZSWL&ref=plSrch

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

I suspect that Bluetooth will eventually be replaced or upgraded by some other improved tech, so it's not really a BIFL thing. I'd recommend separating the bluetooth part from the speakers/amp. So in the spirit of this sub, I'd recommend something like this Bluetooth receiver.

Now you can invest in a BIFL speaker/amp setup that will serve you for the rest of you life and not just get thrown out when it breaks or Bluetooth stops being a thing.

This 2-channel amp is built like a tank and can be repaired if necessary since it's all discrete components. It will likely last a lifetime.

For speakers you have a lot of options, but try to get something from a company that will be around in the future in case you need to replace a tweeter or torn cone, etc. For example these bookshelf speakers.

What can you guys tell me about these speakers

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0040LG96O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427745650&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40&keywords=klipsch+bookshelf+speakers&dpPl=1&dpID=414t%2BYnZSWL&ref=plSrch

I am really considering pulling the trigger, as these guys are in my price point

I meant rb 51 actually.

These:
http://amzn.com/B0040LG96O

If you can manage $250, the Yamaha R-S300BL will handle those speakers very well. I have been very pleased with mine, connected to my Technics 1300MK2 and Pioneer SP-FS52 speakers.

For amplifiers in the $300 range you have a few really decent options.

2 channel?

Emotiva mini-X a-100 for $219
https://emotiva.com/products/amplifiers/mini-x-100
+
Schitt SYS Passive Preamp for $49
http://schiit.com/products/sys-passive-preamp

Or my preferred option due to inputs and subwoofer out
Yamaha S300BL Receiver
http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-R-S300BL-Stereo-Receiver-Black/dp/B0044779H2

It even has a phono in if you get the crazy vinyl madness going around.

Ok, what about multi-channel on a budget ?

Denon AVR-E300 5.1
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-E300-Channel-Networking-Receiver/dp/B00B7X2OV2

It is all multi-channel goodness and it has airplay and all that niceness. Plus it has a nice back panel that is simple as hell. Two RCA inputs, one optical, one coax plus a ton of hdmi connects and that is all except for the speaker connects and subwoofer out. hmmmm... yummy simple stuff for a usually complicated world. Does it have features that you will not use? Sure. Should it distract from quality? I really doubt it.

Funny it seems the Heresy even old ones for music if paired with a good subwoofer should outperform for sound the Infinity speakers but then again old Klipsch speakers especially for modern music is a real love em or leave em kind of sound.

I can't really recommend any of those brands. It's hard to recommend new units because of how suspect build quality and good sound are these days, especially in the low price range. Plus you're going to pay more than you would if you were to find a vintage receiver. Regardless, this Yamaha (foremost) and this HK look like reasonably good deals, but don't take my word on it because I'm recommending purely on a nominal basis. Looks like they both have phono inputs so you wouldn't need to run a seperate phono stage. I recommend you wait a week or two to see what pops on Craigslist before you lay down any cash.

I'm trying to help a friend setup his speaker system with a new vinyl player. He has these bookshelf speakers currently
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/insignia-5-1-4-2-way-bookshelf-speakers-pair-black/8959098.p?id=1218957873370&skuId=8959098

He needs an audio receiver, and I've been looking on Amazon for one for him. Would this do? http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0044779H2

I just need to know if there are certain things I should be looking out for. I don't want to buy it and bring it over to help him set it up only for it to not work or not provide enough power for his 80W bookshelf speakers. Thanks for the help in advance guys!

> http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0044779H2

The turntable is a good pick. If you want to kill the gemtune and not have to buy the project pre-amp you can get this which was mentioned on another thread here and a very popular amp for turntable set ups: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0044779H2, this would also give you a line out for the sub so that you dont have to mess with putting the speaker wires into the sub then back out into the speakers.

If you'd like to commit to a stereo setup, I'd recommend this:

Yamaha R-S300 Stereo Receiver = $279

• Built-in phono stage, so you can retire the Art DJPRE II.
  
• More powerful amplifier--ignore that 200W nonsense posted for the JVC, this will play louder and cleaner
  
• All black, in fact I think it's super stylish
  
  You'll use the Klipsch towers for your TV and vinyl. You get rid of the sound bar entirely. Be aware, the Yamaha doesn't take any digital input. Most TVs these days only have a digital output, in lieu of any analog (RCA) audio outputs. Check your TV, but if that's the case, then you'll just need something like a Fiio D3 DAC to convert your digital out to an analog signal you can plug in to the Yamaha.
  
  As the Yamaha is a stereo receiver, you'll be a bit constrained by it in the future. You won't be able to do surround sound with it, and you won't be able to easily add a subwoofer with it. I know it says it has a subwoofer out, but it doesn't have a crossover, which makes it hard to properly integrate a sub if you want one in the future. If you do replace this unit in the future, in order to get surround sound or a proper subwoofer, then the Yamaha could easily be used for a dedicated vinyl setup someplace in the house--so that's not all bad.
  
  If you're ok with the constraints of a system like this, I bet the Yamaha would be a big upgrade for you. If you'd like something with more flexibility, look in to a standard AVR (AV Receiver). You'll probably give up some amplifier power in an AVR (because it will have 5-7 smaller amps to support surround sound) and you'll give up a built-in phono stage (but you own a halfway decent external unit already). There's plenty of decent entry-level AVRs to be found for $300.

So I'm looking for a receiver for around $250-$275 to pair with the Wharfedale Diamond 10.1s for my bedroom setup.

I haven't had much luck finding any good used stuff in my area but I'm definitely not opposed to buying used.

Right now I am thinking on getting the Yamaha R-
S300http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-R-S300BL-Stereo-Receiver-Black/dp/B0044779H2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1414881007&sr=8-1&keywords=yamaha+rs300.

It seems to have decent specs and decent build quality from what I've read but I haven't been able to find many reviews from hifi sites. I'm just wondering if anybody has used this receiver or knows anything that would be a better value at that price, I would really appreciate it!

I would go for something with discrete tone controls (bass, treble, loudness, etc.). That's something to look for in a vintage amp/receiver. You don't need a home theatre one. If you want to spend a little more don't bother with the Yamaha R-S201 but get the next model up in the line, the R-S300 this has discrete tone controls and styling like the old 70s Yamahas and you'll also get some modern features with it like remote.

Onkyo 9010 and Yamaha are both worth a look. If you don't want a refurb unit, this is a step down from the 500.

Great turntable! I'd also recommend getting one of these, which is super handy in keeping the dust off your records once you get started!

RE Amps:

You don't really need that pre-amp if you buy an amplifier with a "Phono" input. This serves the same purpose as a pre-amp, namely, converting the turntable's signal into something the amp can work with.

Something like This, for example. Many modern amps also have multiple inputs for your iPod, CD player, and whatever else you need, which is great! :D


Those pre-amps are useful if you already have an amplifier which does NOT have this phono input, which is often the case with modern stereos.

Dumb question time! I am getting this receiver. I am using a sub with it. What would the best option be? Connect the sub via the sub out, or use the high level inputs on the sub? Thanks.

I ended up buying an "open box" Yamaha R-S300BL

How do the two compare?

Inifinity P163 - $85 each, $170/pair
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1310171855&sr=8-1

Yamaha RX-397 - $194
http://cgi.ebay.com/Yamaha-Rx-397-Rx397-Home-Stereo-Receiver-SAVE-BARGAIN-/260772748218?pt=Receivers_Tuners&hash=item3cb7445bba

I have a pair of P162s and the P163 isn't a major redesign, so I would assume their at least equally as good and the rx397 is a great, low power stereo.
That gets you in under your $400 budget.

The sticky text recommends a Muse M50 and whatever the best speakers you can afford after that. (so, like $60 for the muse and $120 on the speakers recommended elsewhere in this thread

I too have this receiver and pretty sure santa (the wife) got me these speakers
Can't vouch for them yet but I will after Christmas!

Also for $125 that seems like an excellent price for the Receiver. Last week I bought the same receiver for $140 (and that was after talking him down.) But to be fair the one I scored is in immaculate condition so I'm happy. Hopefully you'll be happy too.

Zeos,

Thank you for this guide. I am currently looking for a solid computer speaker setup.

I use the asus sabertooth z77 motherboard with on board audio:
Realtek® ALC892 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC

• Absolute Pitch 192kHz/ 24-bit True BD Lossless Sound
  
• Optical S/PDIF out port(s) at back panel
  
  Would a DAC be better than the on board sound card? If so, what would you recommend?
  
  I am considering the Swan M50, Swan M200mkii (no sub), or M-Audio AV40 (no sub), Creative GigaWorks T40 for the powered options.
  
  Or
  
  The Infinity P163bk currently $59 per speaker on amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32
  What amp would you recommend for the P163? I am considering the SMSL SA50. What DAC would you recommend for this setup?
  
  Of those options, what would you recommend? Ideally this would be $100-$200 (can go a little over if worth it). I would like a setup where a bass isn't needed, it can lack punch, but I would still like to have some lower coverage.
  
  Thank you.

Project turntables aren't bad at all, but I'd argue that Rega tables are better, especially if you consider the tonearm. And they can be upgraded.

Speakers: the Cambridge Audio are good. I'd consider the Infinity Primus and AudioEngine.

Fwiw, I had some Infinity Primus P142 speakers (similar to this ) sitting around doing nothing and they're in my kitchen now with this amp and the system sounds waaay better than the cheap Sonos. I'm sure better than the more expensive Sonos too.

I thought about that, I guess I felt lazy and thought I can just make one purchase and get nicely matching speakers. I haven't seen many people recommend Infinity's on home setup, a lot of people suggested Klipsch. When I look at two speakers I can't tell what to look for. Is it the wattage? Most review sites claim wattage doesn't mean much these days since there isn't a standard. When I look at the Amazon page for P163's, http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32 they don't even advertise wattage or any other specs. So how does one know a speaker is well matched with his AVR or match with other speakers properly? Thanks for the suggestion.

These guys? What makes you suggest them over the BICs?

Well I recent (about a year and a half ago) ditched all my cruddy three-ways and upgraded to a pair of Infinity Primus P363s. These speakers are phenomenal for the price and have been regarded by various communities as competitive with $1000 range speakers. They are currently on sale at Amazon ($100 off). Check around AudioKarma or other similar websites to see what people are raving about. I know I love mine like crazy.

I agree, make this a project that you save up for over time.

I started with the Infinity Primus which often go on sale for $107 and for that price I dont think they can be beat.

If you just want a pair of speaker's for "everything", those Sony's should be adequate enough. If you have the patience, these sometimes go for about $105 on Amazon from time to time. The last time i saw them like that was about a month ago. Keep in mind it's for one speaker, so two will be just about $210.

That will net you a good stereo 2.0 set up. In fact, the SR805 was quite well regarded back when it came out. Unfortunately, its prone to breaking down from it's own heat. So either sell it if you don't want it, or keep a running fan on top of it to cool it down. Just to be safe.

Getting a good 5.1 setup under $300 is a bit tricky. You could get four $50 speakers an a $100 center, but not only is that lacking a subwoofer its also not going to be as good sounding as a 2.0 system i described above. ymmv.

Okay..so no sound bar. I was also thinking about standing speakers like these:http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Three-way-Floorstanding-Speaker/dp/B0046A8R3M/ref=sr_1_1?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1417160145&sr=1-1

But what do you recommend? I'm on a tight budget and that vizio setup just seemed the cheapest and simplest.

Ok Zeos, I have a Yamaha RX-V373-R Factory Refurbished 5.1-Channel AV Receiver and 2 Infinity Primus 363 Three-way dual 6-1/2-Inch Floorstanding Speaker. From what I was reading, my receiver prefers 8 ohm or 6 ohm speakers, but one of the reviews I was reading says these towers are truly 4 ohms. What is this going to do to my receiver? Should I be worried and is there anything I can do to prevent any damage.
Secondly, a friend of mine had a HTiB, but the receiver died, can I use some of his old satellites/center till I can buy new speakers for my center/rears?
Thirdly, is it ok if I buy a different brand of bookshelfs for my rear speakers? The p363s were 75$ each when I bought them, so a great deal, but now all the different pats seem to have increased quite a bit.

Which models are these? http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Three-way-Floorstanding-Speaker/dp/B0046A8R3M

On the left

Yamaha RX-V377
On top of the Yamaha is a Behringer UMC202HD
The mic is a Shure SM7B

On the right side of the desk is my HP docking station for my work laptop. I work from home a lot so it's nice to have a dock.

In the middle there is an Infinity center channel

I've got 4 of these, front left and right and rear left and right

Using a spdif connection from my motherboard to the receiver.

The subs are two of these.

Keyboard is this

As of tomorrow, mouse will be this

And this huge ass mouse mat

The TSi will outperform the monitor series. And I'm not a fan of Bostons entry level at this point either. I would stick to the TSis for now. As for recommendations you will probably receive from other people are the Infinity Primus 363s and the Pioneer SP-FS51-LR

If you are looking to go cheaper and stick with Polk, you could get the Monitor 70 series which will bump up the bass response a bit more, but if you are fine paying the price for the 400s I would go for those.

Okay, are these infinity primus towers better?

Hi there!

I am seeking advice on what kinda amp i should be getting i am gonna use it on my PC and using it to listen music and for gaming mostly, my budget would be somewhere around 150€

I would be running: Beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro & Dali ZENSOR 1

I have SoundBlaster card which should have SPIDF and digital I/O.

You could look at Wharfedale's diamond series speakers (220 or 225) to stick with the brand. Alternatives I also enjoy are Q acoustics 3020 or concept 20, Dali Zensor, Sonus Faber Principia 1. I would always recommend listening to a couple of different speakers before actually settling on a specific set though, maybe your tastes are completely different from mine. If there are no dealers near you, you could always try to select your top 3 in your price bracket, order all of them and send 2 pairs back ;).

As far as cheap amps go, I only tested a SMSL SA-60 which seemed a little weak with some bigger speakers (could've been a bad unit since I've heard so many good things about those little amps, who knows) and upgraded that to a Pro-ject Stereo Box S. I actually like the Pro-ject amp for small setups. (comes with a tiny remote and has 2 sets of RCA inputs). I found that I didn't need anything else with bookshelf speakers up to around 1.200€ after testing a couple of full size amps that were supposed to be "so much better".

Good Luck

Ich hab auch in der Schulzeit angefangen, sobald mehr Geld da is kann man dann richtig reinlegen. Wenn du zum Beispiel mal gute Regalboxen haben willst kann ich dir die DaLi Zensor 1 empfehlen. Für kleine bis mittelgroße Räume sind die echt verdammt gut (noch nie im größeren ausprobiert). Wobei ich wahrscheinlich als erstes den Spieler selbst verbessern würde weil gute Boxen auch immer dessen Schwächen präsenter machen.

Klipsch RP-150M
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RXHEIHE
ELAC Uni-fi UB5
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRYWVG2/
DALI - ZENSOR 1
https://www.amazon.com/DALI-ZENSOR-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0

Personally if you are looking to save money look around at garage sales some older home theater speakers will kill most today.

Whether any pair of speakers "needs" a sub is a matter of personal preference. If it were up to me, I would put the bulk of the $500 into as good a pair of speakers as you can find, and forget the sub. Here are some suggestions:

https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q300B-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00CE3LG9U

https://www.amazon.com/DALI-ZENSOR-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1500916043&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=Dali+Zensor+1&psc=1&smid=A3PO6K6MJQ13RE

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Klipsch-Reference-RB-61-II-Bookshelf-Black-speakers-Pair-Black-/162594240096?_trksid=p2349526.m2548.l4275

Unless you're willing to push your budget up another couple hundred, I would stick with bookshelf speakers. Also, this is assuming you want to buy new. If you're willing to take a chance with something used, and you're patient, then all bets are off.

Alright, I can understand your dilemma. Let me begin by writing down your possible choices (all prices from amazon.de) :

• Denon SC-F109 - 136€
  
  
• Heco Music Colors 100 - 164€
  
  
• Magnat Vector 203 - 179€
  
  
• JBL Studio 220 - 195€
  
  
• Q Acoustics 2010i - 175€
  
  
• Wharfedale Diamond 9.1/10.1 - 190€
  
  Among these, I have personally heard only the Denons and heard good things about the others. My reason for recommending Denon SC-F109 is that they are the best speakers in their price class. Obviously, there is a lot of subjectivity involved in that statement. Your personal preferences, music taste and room acoustics also matters. For example, you would have to keep these speakers at some distance from the wall, about 12-15" should be enough. But that statement provides you with a reference. This means you could always order two (or even three) of the aforementioned speakers and audition them at your home, one of them being Denon. Then return the ones you do not like. But let me tell you in advance that speaker prices are not always a reliable indication of their quality. If you are not satisfied with any of these and are willing to spend a little more, your best bets would be:
  
  
• Nubert nuBox 313 - 318€
  
  
• Dali Zensor 1 - 290€
  
  Both of these are excellent speakers.

I just bought a system for way more, but is all from dali and im realy happy with them. There cheapest model is http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dali-Zensor-Speakers-Pair-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0. But tbh with "only" that much money i would look for a used setup, just listen to it before and all that.

1.) Take normal speaker wire, like this http://image.made-in-china.com/2f0j00RBMEjAvJpcqF/Oxygen-Free-Copper-OFC-Clear-Speaker-Wire.jpg

2.) Plug the speaker wires into the back of the speakers, positive goes in positive and negative goes in negative.

3.) You will need an amplifier to run these speakers. You can find them at yard sales or other places, they look like this: http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX-SR313-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B0077V8930/ref=lp_281053_1_8?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1406036656&sr=1-8

Make sure that it has terminals on the back to plug the speakers into. The terminals should look similar to this: http://www.vetco.net/catalog/images/PH-75-674-1.jpg

Make sure you don't let any of the wires that you plugged in laying loose or able to touch each other, this will cause a short. Be careful when cutting the insulation away from the speaker wire so that you don't have any cuts in the rubber insulation, or loose strands of wire.

Thoughts?



http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX-SR313-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B0077V8930/ref=cm_sw_em_r_dp_nOf4tb16QSC222PC_tt

Very much appreciated. A few follow-up questions, if you don't mind.

• The speakers seem comparable in specs, but from my (layman's) perspective the Cambridge Audio ones seem slightly better. Did you put them both there because they are comparable and the choice just depends on aesthetics?
  
• The recommended w/ch (at least the maximum) for both speaker sets is higher than what the Onkyo offers. Is this a problem, or will it just not push the speakers to their limits?
  
• I was also looking at this Onkyo, as it's a bit more future proof if I ever want to use it in a surround setup (as well as having a slightly higher w/ch). Do you see any problems with this one?
  
• Is it worth holding out for more expensive speakers in this category? The Audioengine A5+ look fantastic, but again, I have no clue if they're significantly better. I just know about them because I've seen people talk about them often here.
  
  Thanks again so much.

If you can save another 200 and don't want to invest time, you can go with this speaker set and this receiver

OK, I tried to do it for you on the cheap... I mean who doesn't already have wires running from their stereo to their TV? :-)

Well then here you go: but its going to run you north of $50. You will need one of these kits. The transmitter end will connect to your TV, and the receiving end to your stereo. If your stereo does not have a way to select different audio sources (then you should get a proper stereo... Kidding-kinda) then you will need the audio selector box I recommended in my comment above.

Honestly here's how it should be done:
[Cable box] ---hdmi---> [A/V receiver: HDMI input #1] ---hdmi---> [HD TV]

[PC] ---hdmi---> [A/V receiver: HDMI input #2]

[Chromecast] ---hdmi---> [A/V receiver: HDMI input #3]

Here is a nice 4 HDMI input A/V Receiver under $200.

Here is a solid HD TV under $500.

Don't have room for 5.1 channel speakers? Here's a very decent 2.1 channel sound bar. It's under $100.

It's time to step up your game.

Out board DACs tend to have higher quality digital to audio circuits, or, at least, so says the audiophile. Also, a computer case tends to be an electrically noisy place and the converting circuits tend to a better job when standing alone. (Again this is audiophile theory.)

If you are looking for the best surround sound, skip the sound card all together and just run the HDMI out from your videocard into a good surround sound reciever.

Example: http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX-SR313-5-1-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B0077V8930/ref=pd_sim_sbs_e_1 .

One thing for sure, even the best internal sound cards will have terrible amps. Having your amping and DACing done by a real receiver will sound far, far better than any soundcard.

You can get a decent receiver for not much more than a high end sound card. However, you will needs to shell out some cash to get some decent speakers.

I'd definitely do that if it's not a problem financially. You can get VERY decent A/V receivers for under US$200. I'm considering this Onkyo just because it has 4 HDMI inputs, 2 optical audio, 2 component and a few RCA inputs for $160.

I agree with the N30FAMOUS. You need an AV receiver. Anything with at least 5.1 surround sound capability, for example;

http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX-SR313-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B0077V8930/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426268949&sr=8-1&keywords=5.1+av+receiver

The real hassle will be speaker positioning and wiring, but i'll leave that up to you to figure out :)

This is very helpful.

Question, do any retailers sell the control unit of the HTIB without the other speakers? I really wanna avoid into getting new systems and subwoofers and amps and whatnot as I won't be looking for much upgrades. I'm nowhere near a hardcore audiophile most on this sub but I do wanna be able to use my HT system with a good display panel and a couple more HDMI ports.

I was looking at this one for example which has everything I need (including double jack spring sockets). http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0077V8930/ref=gno_cart_title_0?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

The only confusing thing is the subwoofer pre-out. I know this might sound like blasphemy here but is it worth exploring getting that and using it without the subwoofer for now?

Love my onkyo sr313 for $201

Would this Onkyo suit your needs? 4 hdmi and plenty of component. It's 180 on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0077V8930/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?keywords=audio%20receiver&qid=1405451908&ref_=sr_1_6&sr=8-6

Here

It's a budget model so I'm assuming it doesn't :/

My suggestion is to take that $200 and buy a modest receiver, and if the speakers don't sound good enough you can upgrade them down the line. For example: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0077V8930/

https://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB-1000-Controlled-Sealed-Subwoofer/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=aht&rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1462201557&sr=1-37&keywords=subwoofer&refinements=p_85:2470955011&linkCode=sl1&tag=zeos-20&linkId=e88643fa8d4ef9da980029758a7490ac A sub like this one?

Thanks for the replies and recommendations everyone.

I settled on grabbing a pair of sennheiser 598's for now, a lot of people were saying how great they were and I think I'll be happier with the overall sound until I can afford a solid 2.1 setup with a solid amp and subwoofer.

In fact I just got them (598) today, and really love the sound. I wish I could get them a little louder, but I guess thats what the Dac+amp is all about.

I'm probably going to pick up those JBL's in the next few weeks if I can live frugally for a bit, so that's the plan. JBL LSR 305 + denon e200 amp (or similar) + still not 100% sure on the subwoofer. The Martin Logan Dynamo 300 (as per Zeos recomendation) looks like a steal for the price, my best friend who is also a musician keeps trying ot talk me into the expensive but powerful SVS SB1000 12-inch 300 Watt Powered Subwoofer (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2PJQIZKNVWBGT&coliid=IWN7IPEWGCNHB) though I'm not sure how much my neighbors would appreciate it :P

Thanks again, for all the help folks.

http://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB1000-12-inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B00AF88C0M

Try finding the BIC Acoustech PL-200 II on a sale. There's also the Klipsch SUB-12HG as a viable option (was on sale on Fry's recently), but I've read about amp problems with it.

If not, BIC F-12 or Dayton SUB-1500 should do the trick. My budget was <$200, so I managed to grab a BIC F-12 for $180. If I decided to spend more I'd go with the Acoustech.

Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer - Gloss Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074131NKS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_rsAKzb5PDG54W

You can get an x2300 for $400 but personally I would spend the $100 to get the x3300 to get the more power, better room calibration, and if you play retro game consoles, the analog to hdmi conversion. I have an x3100 and I love it. Additionally the extra $38 is worth it to go to the Bic PL 200 II. It's not the loudest or most accurate sub out there, at that price what do you want, but for movies it reaches deep comfortably even at moderate volume. The F12 in my experience doesn't hit the explosion rumble unless you crank it.

Price History

• Micca RB42 Reference Bookshelf Speaker with 4-Inch Woofer and Silk   ^PureLink
  ReviewMeta: ★★★★✮ 4.7/5 from 21 valid reviews
  CamelCamelCamel - [Info] │ Keepa - [Info]
  
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  Don't Rook too long, these prices might not last.
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SMSL AD18 and Micca rb42 would be a good desktop setup. The amp has a headphone output you can also use, Bluetooth if you ever wanted to listen to music off your phone and a controller if you're away from your desk. Easy upgradability for future reference. The speakers produce good bass on their own which is great because that sounds better than having a desk between you and a subwoofer.


https://www.amazon.ca/SMSL-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN


https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=rb42&qid=1567082055&s=gateway&sr=8-1

Looking for a speaker amp for my newly bought Micca RB42s that got back in stock on Amazon. I want to be able to listen to them from very quiet to nicely loud, but not ear bleeding. My budget is up to, but preferably less than how much I spent on the speakers. $~150

The speakers will be near-field, probably on their sides, in front of me under my monitors, so I probably don't want/need an Amp that can push them to their full 100w each.

I currently have desktop computer with a Modi/Magni Schiit stack used for my Sennheiser HD650s with the pre-amp on the Magni going to the powered Bose speakers I am borrowing. The plan is to have the suggested speaker AMP to get the signal from the Magni's pre-amp output and replace the Bose speakers.

The source is my Modi/Magni Schiit stack attached to my computer, as mentioned above, and I will be using them for music, tv, movies, games, and the youtubes in varying amounts.

Can probably buy used if a good deal pops up and isn't a hassle.

Sorry for all the questions.. really appreciate your answers, you've given me more detail than anybody I've talked to at the audio/video stores I go into. Can I buy you a beer somehow? :)

I have one final question I think... my wife chose a TV Stand/Media Console to house all this stuff, and I only have 5.67" of height for the center speaker, so unfortunately that rules out the Dayton Audio set, as well as the Pioneer set I brought up earlier.

So I'm looking at one of two options, first this Micca setup:

Micca MB42X for Front L/R and Rear L/R
Micca MB42X-C for Center (5.3 inches tall, fits my needs)
~$330 CAD for the set of 5 speakers, not bad!
https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00HHFBEK6

(Instead of the MB42X, maybe the RB42? https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/ Seems better reviewed, would add $120 to the price to do those front and back, or just $60 more to do those in the front and still have MB42X in the rear)

(Another option is just to get 5 MB42X-C's?... Or 3 for the front and 2 MB42X at rear)

or this Polk setup.. only other decently priced one I found with a small center.. but this center is much smaller than the Micca:

Polk Audio TL2 for Center
https://www.amazon.ca/Polk-Audio-Speaker-Center-Channel/dp/B0043M667M
Polk T15 for Front L/R and Rear L/R
https://www.amazon.ca/Polk-Audio-T15-Bookshelf-7-25-Inch/dp/B002RJLHB8
~$458 CAD for the set of 5 speakers

(Another option is the T300 set for $150/pair. Shaves $40 off the overall price, not sure if there's much difference there. https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product/polk-audio-polk-audio-t300-100-watt-bookshelf-speakers-pair-t300/10166613 )

I'm not a big fan of the look of the TL2 Bookshelf speakers.. so went for the T15/T300 instead.

Curious if you have any opinions about which to pick.. I'm leaning towards the Micca because they fill the shelves better and the reviews online seem to be decent, and the tiny TL2 center from Polk is... tiny.

To pair with all this I have a Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer.. which gets alot of hate around here but seems more than powerful enough for my needs. Got it last night and hooked it up and I'm running it at about 10% on the gain dial and it's more than enough for what I need.. will probably piss off my neighbours (semi-detached home) even at that level.

Again, thanks for your help, really appreciate folks like you that take the time to answer threads and help people out with their questions.

EDIT: All the above said.. after listening to a dozen reviews or so on the Micca line-up.. I think I'm leaning towards either:

1. RB-42 front and back, and MB42X-C center (really just because I can't get the RB-42C in Canada). This sounds like I'd have alot more bass in the RB-42, but they are weak at high volumes. Filling a large room like I'll have these in would be difficult, although most of the time I'm sitting fairly close to the speakers when watching TV, this would only be an issue while listening to music in the room somewhere other than the couch infront of it.
   
   
2. MB42X-C x 5 all around. More power and higher sensitivity and they seem to keep their clean sound at higher volumes. Less bass per speaker.. but I have the sub in the setup so hopefully that helps fill that gap (even though it's a PSW10).
   
   Long post, sorry... rambling a little as I go back and forth between options.

I love those shp9500's, before upgrading my speakers I ran swan m10's. Def worth the upgrade IMO. This setup is killer, you can wait for a DAC upgrade but I would make it a point to upgrade sooner rather than later, if you don't already have one that is.

Speakers: $150 Micca RB42
Amp: $115 SMSL SA98

These are pretty small. I heard the bass is decent enough you Won't need a subwoofer.
https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=micca+rb42&qid=1569936619&s=gateway&sprefix=micca&sr=8-1

I'm not sure $800 is enough budget for tower speakers unless you would buy Klipsch or Andrew Jones Pioneer. Most good tower speakers which wouldn't really need a sub and would be audiophile quality are something like $550 each.

I would get bookshelves and a subwoofer, and you can upgrade them in the future if you wish. For the bookshelves, do something like this:

KEF Q300B Bookshelf Loudspeakers - Black Ash (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CE3LG9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_xwLDzbT9SB2WF

Or, slightly cheaper:

Klipsch RP-150M Bookshelf Speaker - Cherry (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RXHEH8Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_LHLDzb4SG7WJF

Wharfedale - Diamond 220 (Walnut) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P15KDCO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9RLDzbZ86871K

DALI - ZENSOR 1 - Bookshelf Speakers in Light Walnut (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0057X8796/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_VSLDzbP0MK16M

And for the sub:

SVS SB-1000 – 12”, 300 Watt DSP Controlled, Sealed Box Subwoofer (Black Ash) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_LDLDzbRASPMQT

This puts you over budget by $100 if you go with the KEFs and $35 if you go Klipsch (which would be significantly louder, more V shaped sound (bass and treble, less mids), but less detailed). I haven't heard the wharfedales or dalis in person so I can't comment on their sound. So, I would start with just the speakers and then decide if you want a sub or not, if you do, continue saving.

Edit: some tower options that are less than $800:

Klipsch RP-250F Floorstanding Speaker - Ebony (Each) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S2N4BDO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.LLDzbFH56BVV

Monitor Audio Bronze Series 5 2 1/2 Way Floorstanding Speaker - Each - Black Oak https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XW22VY6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_cQLDzb7WQ7KE9

ELAC - Debut F5 Tower Speakers (Each) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014GSEPY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_TQLDzbEY4CHAQ

High pass filtered outputs means that the outputs only send out the amount I set on the knob and up? For example if the knob is at 100hz, the subwoofer will output a signal only 100hz-20khz? correct?

https://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB-1000-Controlled-Sealed-Subwoofer/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499701742&sr=8-1&keywords=svs+sb12

Take a look at this one - it has both inputs and outputs for RCA, does it do what I want it to do as specified in the op?

I'm sorry, life picked up real fast and I have been too busy to do the research. I did check your Craigslist after originally planning on some extreme floorstanders, a dedicated amplifier with receiver, until I realized in your situation it would likely be better to get bookshelf speakers and a subwoofer.

So, with that in mind, here are some ideas (I'm recommending new b/c it is the easiest, but this could also give you some ideas/a general perspective on price per component and etc.):

Speakers: Elac UB5 - some great sounding, resonably priced bookshelves. They have the neat feature of having a co-axial tweeter, meaning the tweeter is mounted inside the midrange's cone, which helps blend the frequencies together (particularly important for vocals)

Subwoofer: SVS SB-1000 - This thing is both crazy enough to supply some serious low end, while still refined enough for a small room. You certainly won't need any more bass with an option like this :)

Amplifier/reciever: There are many suitable options here, and for your price range being able to hook up your TV for home theater should easily be possible. A really nice Denon can run you $500 but comes with many features. The only one I see missing is "pre-outs" which are used to hook up bigger and badder amplifiers, which you probably won't need.

That's just one part-ed out system, that would sound excellent and last you many years. Typically the only thing that becomes obsolete is the receiver when new standards (like HDMI) become available.

EDIT: You'll also want a USB DAC for your laptop, such as this Schiit Audio DAC which will sound leagues better than the headphone jack on the laptop.

I can't speak to the headphones, but it looks like you already have a pretty nice system, so replacing anything in the $500 price range is probably going to be an incrimental improvement or a matter of taste. I'm assuming you are interested in music listening and not in adding speakers to go toward a home theater set up, so I would add a subwoofer to fill in the low end and take some strain off woofer and your amp. If your priority is music, I would go with a sealed sub, but a ported will give you much greater output, but take up more space in your room. It looks like SVS sells via amazon, so hopefully, you get their whole customer bill of rights even if you don't order from them. Also, of course what sub you get depends largely on your room and preferences, but for whatever its worth the Merlin tool on SVS's website, matches your speakers with the SB200 or PB2000.
http://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB2000-500-watt-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B00IE5MOUM/ref=sr_1_312?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1419356757&sr=1-312

http://www.amazon.com/SVS-SB1000-12-inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=sr_1_463?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1419356997&sr=1-463

http://www.amazon.com/SVS-PB1000-10-inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B00AF88BRG/ref=sr_1_464?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1419356997&sr=1-464

Wow, very nice! Thank you so much for your reply.

My idea was skipping amp/preamp setup and go straight through an integrated, but I don't think I'd be missing too much.

I currently have a Rolls Phono Preamp that I am using with my dad's receiver and speakers. I'll be moving out again soon, so I'll at least have to get my own speakers and amp. That AudioSource Amp looks like a better idea, and I could use that with the Rolls Preamp. Do you know of any reports and quality differences between the audiosource and emotivia flex?

I am open to adding a sub, but I don't know how I feel about the speaker being directed at the floor. Especially with the possibility of living in an apartment with neighbors below, though I am really digging the SVS SB1000 you recommended.
What if I went the SVS route with speakers and sub, with the audiosource amp? That would be about $1,120. So still pretty close to my "budget".

Here is the link..not sure if they are authorized https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AF88C0M/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=A3AX97H0S9ZCXS&psc=1

Napkin math says you're $1400 in with tax.

My vote would be return it, buy this, 1 pair of B5s and a C5, and this.

At that point, you'll be about 13 or 1400 in. On your next paycheck, buy another set of B5s for surrounds. Place the surrounds left and right of the couch, maybe a TINY bit (10deg) back. You should be focusing on much higher quality speakers, not more, worse ones. That SVS is a powerful sub, and those Elacs will wreck your Polks.

Definitely get a good 2.0 system at the very least. My recommendation:

Speakers $320: http://www.htd.com/Products/bookshelf-speakers/Level-THREE-Bookshelf-Speakers

Receiver $200: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavre300/denon-avr-e300-5.1-3d-networking-receiver-airplay/1.html?gclid=CI-8of2su8MCFRRcfgodX7sAUQ

Thats 520 bucks for a great 2.0 system. I'd save up for a sub-woofer because the one i'd recommend is the majority of your price range.

Sub $499: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AF88C0M/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00AF88C0M&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwpuresimula-20

Plenty of companies offer space saving solutions. What about in wall speaker systems? Virtually no footprint. Ease of use? Again, plenty of capable satallite/ sub HTIB.

Since Bose refuses to offer Specs for their lines of audio, I am unable to provide hard data to back up these folling claims. However, I do have a calibrated measurment microphone with audio analysis software and would be willing to test any of these and compare.

> Soundlink Mini2 199$<enter>
JBL Flip 3 Splashproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker = 85$ simillar size/sound quality with water resistance

> Acoustimass 3 Series V 199$

• Mica Compacts 40$
  
• Subwoofer 110$
  total price= 140 which is still under the bose. the benefit of this system is the subwoofer cone is larger and powered, unlike the acousitmass sub which is a 6 inch paper passive subwoofer.
  
  >Acoustimass 10 series V 999$
  10 inch powered subwoofer 129$
  2 of these 76.87 x2
  center
  total= 360 i promise it would perform on par with the acoustimass system. if you wanted more power you could easily get a better subwoofer. keep in mind they are better build quality the acoustimas are paper cones.
  
  2000 range would be the invisible in wall system. probably all the way to atmos.
  
  These are just examples. Keep in mind these builds are to equal to the performance of the products by bose.

There are some smaller speakers out there that would be a large sonic improvement without taking up a ton more space and/or being aesthetically displeasing. A couple of examples at different sizes:

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM?th=1

https://www.crutchfield.com/S-HYDr9GSyppK/p_701S803BL/Jamo-S-803-Black.html

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_701S81CBL/Jamo-S-81-CEN-Black.html

Let's say you could find someone to buy the speaker for $70 (~half the price new).

You could purchase 2 pairs of these and connect them in parallel or series.

What I'm currently hoping for is another lightning deal on this that drops the price to at least half, then I'll order another MKIII crossover from Micca and use them for a decent 2.0 setup.

When your budget is small, whether out of necessity or self-imposed, you get creative. Sometimes it works out.

Ultimately, I'd like to build the Amiga tower speakers.

Here is the desk:

https://imgur.com/gallery/6HhvL/new

You can see the receiver on by the TV in this album:

https://imgur.com/a/MSqrT

in a few days the desk will have those Micca speakers by the tv and my ultrawide/portrait as seen here:

http://imgur.com/gallery/wVBdT/new'

OH, I'm also gonna get the Micca center channel..

http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/ref=sr_1_8?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1462156184&sr=1-8&keywords=micca

This comes in at $415 and would probably sound considerably better than most htib:

Reciever:
http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/onktxsr343/onkyo-tx-sr343-5.1-ch-x-65-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html

Center channel:
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1472958351&sr=8-2&keywords=micca+center

Speakers, 2 pair:
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B009IUIV4A/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1472958258&sr=8-3&keywords=mica

Subwoofer:
https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-10-Inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B0002KVQBA/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1472958408&sr=1-1&keywords=subwoofer

I was looking at that one, but considering it's so much newer than the BAs I have, would it make much difference to even get the same manufacturer for this? I was also eyeing this speaker which got great reviews: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HH2GINM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T2_8mctzbY8MBZYH

Thanks for your reply and advice. The all in one system was inherited when I bought my house. The previous owner installed two ceiling built-in speakers for the back left/right of the 5.1 setup. If I can confirm that those speakers are 4+ ohms, I am considering doing a full replace on the rest, so getting:

[Dayton Audio SUB-1200] (https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629)

[Micca MB42 Bookshelf Speakers] (https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B009IUIV4A?th=1)

[Micca MB42-C Center Channel Speaker] (https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM?th=1)

[DENON
AVR-S530BT 5.2-Ch x 70 Watts Bluetooth A/V Receiver] (https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs530bt/denon-avr-s530bt-5.2-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html)


Assuming I can check the two built-in ceiling speakers (which are a lot newer than the philips setup) and confirm they will work does that list make sense?

Oh my mistake, I see why... On amazon.ca, a pair of MB42X is $133. And the centers are $63 each, but they're actually the non-X version (MB42-C) so that's why it's cheaper: https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-MB42-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/

Amazon. If you look at the Q&A, the top one asks if it's a pair, and the listing says "each"

Well the speakers I'll be getting are rated at 6ohms if that matters. The onkyo is also rated at 6ohms but their specific test was done at 8

[Pioneer SP-PK52FS Andrew Jones 5.1 Home Theater Speaker Package] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IK8I9K2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_yCKJybE5XQP7F)

You run one HDMI from your receiver output to the tv. Then you plug all your other devices...apple tv, video games, whatever into the receiver HDMI inputs.

Yes it will play the sound on the speakers and the picture on the tv. You don't have to do anything special, its not really a feature thats just what they do.

If you want a great sounding set of speakers for a good price check these out.

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1484497382&sr=8-6&keywords=andrew+jones

You'll need a receiver and I'd recommend sticking with a standard 5.1 setup and ditching the ceiling idea with your price range. I don't know anything about in-wall/in-ceiling speaker mounting, but it sounds expensive compared to putting some bookshelves on stands. You might look into something like this: https://smile.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1484575380&sr=8-3&keywords=pioneer+andrew+jones

A receiver for this might look like this: https://smile.amazon.com/Yamaha-RX-V381BL-Receiver-Black/dp/B01BY7YOAY/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

Though I've not heard that particular model, I have a similar Yamaha that powers my andrew jones pioneer setup.

How about this?

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IK8I9K2

I have a living room (approx. 14'x15' w/ 8' ceiling) with a 7' projector screen in the middle, and I'm looking to set up some speakers for music (30%) and TV/movies (70%).

I have four options in front of me, all available for basically the same price ($250-300):

1. Klipsch Synergy Quintet II Home Theater Speaker System w/ a KSW-10 sub
   
2. Pioneer SP-PK52FS Andrew Jones 5.1 Home Theater Speaker Package
   
3. KEF Fivetwo Series MODEL11 Floor Standing Home Theater Speakers
   
4. Elac Cinema Pipes w/ center, satellites, and sub
   
   I don't have a great way to set up any of the rear speakers at the moment, so there's a good chance I'd run any of the 5.1 systems as a 3.1.
   
   I really appreciate your advice, and feel free to ask more questions if needed.
   

Yep.

If you're on a budget and you just want a solid, easy to drive set of speakers, give Pioneer's Andrew Jones designed stuff a look. They're amazing for what you pay.

You can buy what you need or you can get the whole 5.1 setup in a package deal.

Hello everyone! I'm trying to move forward on buying a surround sound system for my living room. have done a little research but I'm still unsure of what to buy. I have roughly 1000$ limit and I'm looking for a setup for my 4k 55'' tv which is about 10feet from the couch.

I was looking at these speakers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IK8I9K2

and this receiver: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRYWWFC

My only concern is that my roomlayout will be a little rough to wire everything(I live in a stone house and can't run cables in outer facing walls). So I was thinking I should go bluetooth, but was recommended not to. Is this setup good? Should I look into bluetooth? Or I could go an alternate route and go with a soundbar and subwoofer. Any help would be much appreciated!

Room layout

http://imgur.com/l5PsLjW

Awesome. Thank you for your help. The more and more I look into it, i'm starting to like the Pioneer SP-PK52FS setup. The reviews seem to be great, and i like how everything is included. What are some of the drawbacks of going with a pre-packaged system like that instead of purchasing everything separately? Could i find a better system for the same, or even less money if i was to put it together piece by piece? Thanks again!

plan b

Edit. I forgot subwoofer

This is what I have in my home and I couldn't be happier-

Receiver-https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZIGUE8Y?ref=emc_b_5_t

Speakers-https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IRH0QMA/ref=sr_1_23?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1485682123&sr=1-23&keywords=pioneer%2Bpackage&th=1

I have a MartinLogan sub but it's not available on Amazon right now so you could either get the slightly more expensive speaker package with the sub included or look at something like the Dayton 1000 or 1200.

Receiver plus 5.1 set will cost just under $1000. I really can't recommend the Pioneers enough. I just replaced a Infinity Primus set I had and even thought the Pioneers are cheaper, the sound so much better, especially with movies.

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-Theater-Speaker-Package/dp/B00IRH0QMA?th=1 5.0 or 5.1

https://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-SUB-1000-10-Inch-Subwoofer/dp/B0063NU3AA/ref=sr_1_1?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1485640866&sr=1-1&keywords=dayton+sub
Sub

I don't own any of this equipment, but it is pretty agreed on that it has a great performance/value ratio

The Polks mentioned earlier are nice, after researching quite a bit I found a lot of people also recommend the Andrew Jones set, which is what I ended up getting (I grabbed a Bic F12 subwoofer instead of the matching Pioneer one, however)

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-5-0-Theater-Speaker/dp/B00IRH0QMA/ref=sr_1_14

I have NOT seen such kind reviews to the Andrew Jones setup around this subreddit, but most people here seem to be playing in a different league than we are, in terms of budget.

Also, if you're looking to go a bit cheaper with the receiver, this is the one I ended up getting - https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs730h/denon-avr-s730h-7.2-ch-x-75-watts-a/v-receiver-w/heos/1.html

It's a refurb, yeah, but it's refurbed by Denon themselves, mine arrived looking indistinguishable from a brand-new one and it works great. It also supports Atmos and DTS-X, all of the HDMI ports are 2.0 full bandwidth, etc...

$375 + $220 = $595, which leaves plenty left over for a good entry-level subwoofer and maybe even some upward-firing Atmos speakers if he really wants to get into it. I have the Atmos add-on speakers that are matched to my floorstanding ones, and I'm pretty happy with them. Again, this subreddit hates upward-firing ones, but I really enjoy the fuller sound, and they cost $100 for the pair.

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-5-0-Theater-Speaker/dp/B00IRH0QMA

Add a pair of these

http://www.amazon.com/NXG-Technology-NX-BAS-500-500-watt-Subwoofer/dp/B008FSTU4G/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1421766182&sr=1-1&keywords=ngx+subwoofer&pebp=1421766187171&peasin=B008FSTU4G

These products have been measured by third party reviewers and have performed VERY well for their price points. I'm not sure if you'll find any sort of objective data on some of the other suggestions. It is up to you to decide how important that is to you though.

Thanks for the info. I want to keep the speaker budget below $4k but $2k would be ideal. Speaker placement would attempt to match the official Dolby recommendations for 7.1.4 located on pg.26 of this doc although I may upgrade to 9.1.4 eventually.

Here are the speakers I was originally considering. It would been some combination of these but not all.

SVS Prime Elevations

Pioneer Elites Andrew Jones or this non-Atmos/Elite Pioneer Andrew Jones bundle

This Sub

I'd recommend you get the get the Pioneer Andrew Jones speakers for that price. You can get 2 pairs of bookshelves+1 center for just $333 or if you want front floorstanders than that set currently costs $460.

These come highly recommended. Many people liked them and said they're the best at their price. Wirecutter did a fairly extensive comparison and concluded these are the best budget surround-sound speaker system.

I am actually considering trying the [Pioneer SP-PK52FS speakers] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IRH0QMA/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER) along with the LV12R

Any comments on those speakers?

That may push me out of my budget. I could get less expensive LR and center to get a better sub. How about the Klipsch R-12SW for $337 instead?

Thanks for the thoughtful response! I wasnt sure how the price vs quality of sound systems really was, since with some things the $5000 option ends up the same as the $50 sometimes, you know? In response to getting a 2.0/.1 system, I was thinking of doing something along those lines. Do you know anything about the Klipsch R24F Floorstanding speaker? I was thinking about getting two of those (frys is doing a sale, 250 for a pair) and the Klipsch 12" sub (also on sale for 200). Reviews seem pretty sparse and dont really lean in any direction. I just dont know what kind of specs to look for and what indicates good performance. Thanks again for your original response and for any future advice :D

I do really like Sonos products, but it's hard to make much of a comparison...they don't share woofer sizes, power output, or anything else about their sub.

this Sub plus a Connect would cost the same as just a Sonos Sub, you think the Sonos Sub is better than this one?

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R12SW-Powered-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y

I'm going to be buying the following:

KEF Q150 - Amazon

Klipsch R12SW - Amazon

Yamaha A S501 - Amazon

They're going to be going into my PC.

I would like to know whether i would need to buy any extra cables in order to make it all work properly? Or does everything come ready to connect in the boxes?

I'm a complete audio noob, and this is going to be my first setup, so please bare with me.

Thanks.

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-12SW-12-Inch-Front-Firing-Subwoofer/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1495816422&sr=1-3&keywords=klipsch%2Bsubwoofer&th=1

1.
Will https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-12SW-Subwoofer/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y cover the whole spectrum?

2.
Where can I learnt about these sort is things? A book?

First of all, thank you for a such a detailed post! You provided great insight and appreciate that.

Now - To be perfectly honest, I don't know too much about bipoles and dipoles to comfortably experiment with them. But I will try to educate myself further and research before I purchase the front 3 speakers. Do you have any floorstanding tower speaker recommendation for these?

The set up for the seating is simply 2 rows of 4 seats each, the rear seating row is slightly elevated on a step.

The media room in question is wired for a 7.1 set up (2 at the back wallmounted, 2 at the sides wallmounted, 2 at the front floorstanding, and the center speaker and sub in the middle front).

You suggested that I use 2 subs, but the room is only wired for 1 sub at the front. Would a larger subwoofer be a suitable substitute for two smaller ones? If so, do you have any recommendations that would work well in tandem with my receiver? Also, thanks for the video reference on the sub placement!

All wiring in the room is 14 gauge. I will look into the banana plugs, they look easy and convenient and i'll certainly pick up a couple of those when this is all said and done.

What do you think of this set up /u/homeboi808 ? I have to ask because you seem very knowledgeable in all this!

Receiver: Denon AVR-X3300W

Subwoofer: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-12SW-12-Inch-Front-Firing-Subwoofer/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=X61GNYGX8Z19KA6JEN9B

Front Towers: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-26F-Floorstanding-Speaker-Each/dp/B00LMDYM6W/ref=pd_sim_23_19?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=8E24TMRWR6S9TGCZ6W1R

Center: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP-250C-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00S4HA4GQ/ref=pd_lpo_23_tr_t_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=CW0N9DRTVFS8G4NZGHW9

Side Surround: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP-250S-Surround-Speaker-Each/dp/B00S4HE1QA

Back-Surround: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP-150M-Bookshelf-Speaker-Ebony/dp/B00RXHEIHE

If youre wondering, I prefer Klispch because I get a little 5% family discount on their products from my cousin. I would really appreciate your input!

I have KRK Rokit 5s and use the Klipsch R12SW subwoofer.

My question is, what level should I set the LF Level Adjust on my Rokits so that they least conflict with my sub? Also, I know this comes down to personal preference but what would recommended settings be for Gain and Low Pass with my sub? I listen primarily to bass heavy dance music if that makes any difference.

The Onkyo is nice, I've had one for a while, and I like it, but it doesn't have a remote. I would consider the SMSL Q5 Pro if you can deal with the inputs, but if you're looking for something higher end, I've enjoyed listening to the Teac AI-301DA.

If you're fine without the remote, the Onkyo has been a solid performer for me. As for subs, I've heard and enjoyed a friend's Hsu Research VTF-1. I have a Klipsch R-12SW that has served me fine, but I got it for a song new, and if you're paying full price, the Hsu is a much better value.

Also, if you go with the Hsu, it has speaker-level pass throughs, so that opens up the avenue for 2ch amps without discrete sub outs, and I'm always quick to recommend the Emotiva A-100.

Amazon seems to have them at the same price, but currently out of stock

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-12SW-12-Inch-Front-Firing-Subwoofer/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=electronics&rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1478236801&sr=1-1&keywords=klipsch+subwoofer&refinements=p_85:2470955011&linkCode=sl1&tag=zeos-20&linkId=c8a3f587a25a70c26dda508a7e0dc993

Klipsch R12-SW Subwoofer - $213 At Amazon

This is what I found in the shop (for my price range), would you recommend any of those over Dali sub?

Yamaha NS-SW300PN

Klipsch R-12SW

Magnat QUANTUM 6725 A

​

Edit: I think I'll go with Dali Oberon 3 + Onyko TX-8220 for now and save up for a good sub like SVS which others mentioned below.

​

To get the output from PC to a receiver I'll use the USB to SPDIF adapter you linked. Could you briefly explain to me the difference between the adapter you provided and something like Dragonfly Black - is there a perceived change in sound quality between the two?

​

Thanks for helping me out!

Considering you are big into Music with a side of movies - I would buy a 2/3.1 setup and focus on nicer speakers.

You could go with 2 of these towers:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007THXXXS/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_2?pf_rd_p=1944687522&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B007ZBIITM&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1XHVP8H30326NZJEYE50

This sub:
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Sub-12HG-Synergy-300-Watt-Subwoofer/dp/B003VIWK0G/ref=sr_1_12?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1425991109&sr=1-12&keywords=martin+logan+subwoofer

Price: $1780

or

These 2 towers:
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RF-82-Reference-Floorstanding-Loudspeaker/dp/B00TE8OTRO/ref=sr_1_16?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1425991254&sr=1-16&keywords=floor+standing+klipsch

this sub: http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R12SW-Powered-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y/ref=zg_bs_172568_22

this center: http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP440C-Ebony-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00S4H6H26/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1425991391&sr=1-4&keywords=klipsch+center+channel

Price: $1780

Id go option 2, but Martin Logan towers are great. I think you would like either option.

For subwoofers, we are partial to BIC for < $500. The F12 used to be what we recommended to someone looking for an entry level subwoofer cost. However, the next level up PL-200 is current on sale for $250:

https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B00OFXV5IO

This subwoofer was amazing at about $330, and I remember some customers were gleeful about being able to negotiate it down to about $270 by messaging one of the authorized dealers. $250 is really a no-brainer.

For > $500, we recommend one of the many fine subwoofers from SVS for maximum "pants leg flapping" effect.

I highly recommend a receiver with Audyssey processing. And unless you need 4k/3D/Atmos processing, you can usually find great deals on a top-of-the-line receiver that's a few years old. Onkyo and Denon also sell factory refurbished receivers that can be good deals, like this one:

https://usa.denon.com/us/product/refurbishedprocat/avreceiversref/avrs910w

For speakers, the Pioneer "Andrew Jones" speakers are hard to beat at that price point. You can get the five main speakers for less than $500!

https://smile.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-5-0-Theater-Speaker/dp/B00IRH0QMA/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1473882665&sr=1-6&keywords=pioneer+speakers

If you have a small room (<1500 cuft?) the Pioneer sub should be great. If you have a larger room, it might be worth shopping around for something a little more substantial. I recently picked up a great 12" Klipsch sub at Fry's during one of their crazy sales for $180. I'm using it in a smaller second room, and it is very nice. So if you keep your eyes peeled, you might find a great deal. Or you can invest in an SVS, Hsu or other rock solid, bulletproof sub.


Did you want tower speakers or bookshelf speakers for the fronts?

Any Blu-ray player will do. Get one that has the features you want (Netflix etc.)

Cables from monoprice.

How are you feeding signal to your Sa50? Computer phono out?

You would have to try to split the signal from the source, somehow. They make RCA Y cables to do this, but any time you split a cable, you run the risk of making it sound like crap. (IMO)

Of course, you could use something like this to give you additional RCA outs, of which you could send one pair to the amp, and another to the sub. https://amzn.com/B0044779H2

Or, the best solution would be something along these lines: https://amzn.com/B00F0H88SY

You really should post a budget...but here's a solid and inexpensive setup:

2x P163 @ $85 ea: http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/

Emotiva Ultra Sub 12 @ $429: http://emotiva.com/ultra_sub12.shtm

add a decent used receiver from craigslist, and you're good to go. If you don't have speaker cables, get them from monoprice.

I've blown your friend's budget by about $70 (they would also need to improvise some speaker stands, but this isn't always too much of a problem) and they'll need to drop another ~$20 on speaker wire, but I suspect that this would be a more than satisfying setup for watching movies or listening to music. (I have the same basic setup, a few years older with an AVR-2310. I had an AVR-1604 before that and only replaced for it's lack of HDMI inputs)

Receiver Denon AVR-1613- $299

Front - 2X Infinity Primus P163BK Two-way 6 1/2-Inch - $85.95 ea

Rear - 2X Infinity Primus P153 Two-Way 5 1/4-Inch - $75.95 ea

Center - Infinity Primus PC251 Two-way dual 5-1/4-Inch Speaker - $149.95

Sub Infinity Primus PS410 10-Inch 300-Watt Powered Subwoofer - $299.95

edit - formatting

If you have a Frys near you I would recommend this at $99 each (when they are on sale in-store only):

http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Three-way-Floorstanding-Speaker/dp/B0046A8R3M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425357232&sr=8-1&keywords=infinity+primus

If you don't live near a Frys, Amazon sometimes will pricematch it with free shipping so you can look out for that.

There is also a list here for speakers if your on a budget.

http://www.reddit.com/r/AverageJoeAudiophile/

For less than $150, I'd go for a soundbar setup. I haven't heard it, but the Vizio soundbar with a wireless subwoofer might be up your alley. It's not going to give you awesome audiophile-ish sound but it'll be worlds better than just the TV speakers.

I also have a Vizio 4k TV and got this soundbar and sub...works great!

https://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY/ref=sr_1_1?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1473204343&sr=1-1&keywords=vizio+sound+bar

Connect the soundbar to the audio out port & turn off the Vizio internal speaker via the TV menu....pretty easy!

These speakers would up directly. I have heard good things and they are a wire cutter pick for best computer speakers. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0

I hope you don't mind I found some examples. Onkyo TX-SR444 $319. Monoprice 5.1 speaker set $150. Logitech Harmony Smart Control $70. This will get you something to setup and learn with and it should sound better than what you've had before with a ton more options. The Onkyo has great built in software and a mic to help do some automatic speaker calibration. You can also tweak it manually when you learn more. You can add rear speakers later if you want 7.1. If after a while you find the fronts/center aren't "full" enough you can add something like this and this. When I got started this really helped me out. Reading and research and asking questions helps a ton! Enjoy.

For $612, I would consider:

Elac Debut B6.2 bookshelf $150/pair

ELAC Debut C6.2 center, $140

Sony SSCS5 surrounds, $73

BIC PL-200 II subwoofer, $249

​

Well, a pair of these bad boys will run you about $150: https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-T50-Theater-Standing/dp/B013LIN5W2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480097255&sr=8-1&keywords=standing+floor+speaker

From there you just need to pick up an audio receiver to run them. That's a more personal decision. You can find a 2.0 or 2.1 model for a bit cheaper, or you can plan for the future and get a 5.1 or 7.1 that can handle surround sound.

All in all you can give yourself a really nice setup for about $250 that is going to be a gigantic jump in quality from what you get out of a soundbar or tv speakers.

i would go with this package deal at just over $1,000

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SC-1223-Andrew-Theater-Package/dp/B00R2HQG02/ref=sr_1_20?

i have these on one of my tvs and they are great for the price. they perform far above their price point in my opinion.


you could also just get the fronts/center/rears for just under $500 then pick the receiver & sub you want.
$480: https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-5-0-Theater-Speaker/dp/B00IRH0QMA/ref=sr_1_3?

if i were going that route i would try to spend a little more on the sub (that is one of most important parts to me) and get a basic receiver to start.

so this sub
$330: https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-Subwoofer-Black/dp/B00OFXV5IO/ref=sr_1_4?

and this receiver
$160 used, $250ish new: https://www.amazon.com/Sony-STRDH550-5-2-Channel-Receiver/dp/B00J30GXW2/ref=sr_1_2?


that comes in either just under $1k or $50 over for new receiver.

either of those packages should perform very well for the price.

edit: saw this receiver from a similar thread and would be good fit to start with too http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamhtr3067bl/yamaha-htr-3067-5.1-ch-x-70-watts-a/v-receiver-same-as-rx-v377/1.html

Hi,
I was looking to get a soundbar/speaker system mainly for my tv, for playing xbox and listening to music. I saw [this] (https://www.amazon.com/VIZIO-SB3821-C6-38-Inch-Wireless-Subwoofer/dp/B00SMBG8QY/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1465680934&sr=1-6&keywords=sound+bar) on Amazon and was wondering what the quality of it might be, or for any other suggestions.
My budget is $100-$200.